Network Rail has announced plans to commence a £3m ($3.38m) modernisation project for the Rannoch Road bridge in Killiecrankie, Scotland, UK.  

The six-month programme, starting on 2 September 2024, aims to replace the bridge deck to ensure the continued safe and reliable operation of the railway. 

The project involves engineering work on the 128-year-old single-span structure, which spans the Highland Main Line.  

Engineers will replace the existing bridge deck and make alterations to the bridge abutments to accommodate a new concrete arch deck. 

A temporary bridge will be installed to maintain vehicle access during the project, with the exception of two weekends later in the year when access will be restricted.  

Network Rail and principal contractor AmcoGiffen will establish a compound adjacent to Faskally Caravan Park for site offices and welfare facilities. 

The Rannoch Road bridge modernisation is part of a broader £1.95bn investment in Scotland's Railway. 

Network Rail scheme project manager Susan Menmuir said: “Renewal work such as this is essential in allowing Network Rail to maintain and improve our assets across Scotland’s Railway. This is a significant piece of engineering and not without its challenges. Not only are we replacing the bridge deck, we’re also installing a temporary structure next to it and within a tight space. However, this allows vehicle access to be maintained for the community during delivery of much of the works. 

“Replacing the 128-year-old bridge will ensure that work on this scale will not be required for at least another 120 years. We do appreciate the impact our activity will have on Killiecrankie village, particularly those living closest to the bridge and we will do all we can to minimise this where possible.” 

This initiative follows the start of construction on a new footbridge at Lostwithiel station in Cornwall. 

A temporary bridge is being built to improve access and safety while plans for a permanent structure are being designed.