Views sought on future of Corpach station
Kilmallie Community Council (KCC) is welcoming views and suggestions on the future of Corpach railway station as it looks to prevent the building from falling into disrepair.
Members are keen to save the building, which they feel has historical significance in the village, and are open to suggestions from residents and groups as to what to do with the rail-side property.
ScotRail has also been considering the prospects of demolition and the station’s future has previously been discussed by the West Highland Community Rail Partnership as the building has been closed for some time. The issue is due to be raised again at the partnership’s next meeting on November 12.
At a meeting on Monday night, KCC chairwoman, Christine Hutchison said: ‘It’s either going to fall into disrepair or get demolished. That’s unless someone comes up with a solution for how to save it.’
Corpach railway station, built in 1901, forms part of the celebrated West Highland line which runs to Mallaig.
Denis Rixson, Highland councillor for Caol and Mallaig, suggested the building could be taken over by a community group. ‘Is there a group which meets with a common interest who could do with a home?’ he asked the meeting. ‘It’s the sort of place that could provide a good home to such a group.’
Mr Rixson mentioned the former Morar train station, which is now used by a community group, as an example of what can be done with disused stations.
Members agreed that efforts should be made to avoid demolition but that it would require considerable work to restore it to a state where it could be used.