Rail passengers face service disruptions between Stirling and Dunblane over two weekends starting this Saturday as Network Rail enters the next phase of £4m infrastructure improvements requiring line closures for safety reasons.
The first closure runs from 28 February to 2 March, with a second planned for 14-16 March. Rail replacement buses will operate during both periods whilst engineers complete work that can only be carried out when trains are not running.
Mark Ilderton, ScotRail service delivery director, stated: “This essential work will help build a more resilient railway and support dependable services for communities along the route long into the future. While the upgrades are taking place, our focus throughout is on providing clear information and getting people where they need to be.”
The closures enable engineers to complete concreting work and repairs at Kippen Ross tunnel, deck replacement and steel work repairs to a footbridge at Bridge of Allan, and strengthening the sides of the bridge at Mill of Keir Viaduct. These major activities require trains to stop running for safety reasons.
Since January, Network Rail has delivered structural upgrades, masonry and drainage repairs, plus signage improvements to boost route reliability and resilience without requiring full closures. However, the next phase involves more significant activity necessitating the two-weekend disruption.
Owen Ferry, project manager at Network Rail Scotland, stated: “Reaching this part of the project is an important step in securing the long‑term resilience of the railway. Our teams will be working around the clock to strengthen key structures and ensure the route continues to serve passengers and freight reliably for years to come.”
Ilderton added: “Some journeys will be served by rail replacement buses, but we have a robust plan in place to ensure customers can continue to travel with confidence. We’d like to thank customers for their patience and understanding while these vital improvements are carried out.”
Passengers are encouraged to check journeys with their train operator or nationalrail.co.uk before travelling. The project is due to complete in May, with Network Rail committed to maintaining safe, sustainable infrastructure throughout the works.
Network Rail Scotland provides updates via @NetworkRailSCOT on X for the latest information about the closure periods and alternative travel arrangements.
