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Full steam ahead for railway station plan near Inverness Airport at Dalcross


By Philip Murray

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Plans for the new station at Dalcross are expected to be lodged by December. Picture: Gary Anthony.
Plans for the new station at Dalcross are expected to be lodged by December. Picture: Gary Anthony.

A NEW railway station next to Inverness Airport could be open by late 2022, Network Rail hopes.

Plans are expected to be submitted for the new Dalcross station before Christmas.

And the public will get the chance to view them – and quiz engineers behind the project – at a special online consultation event later this month.

Under the proposals, a brand new station consisting of two platforms, a passing loop and spaces for 64 cars would be built on a site next to the existing Inverness-Aberdeen rail line.

The move is aimed at catering to increased demand for flights in and out of the airport, as well as to new housing in the local area – such as the Tornagrain new town that is under development just a mile to the south-west.

“Network Rail will be submitting a planning application to Highland Council in December for a new railway station and associated infrastructure at Inverness Airport and the Dalcross area enhancements,” said a spokesman.

He added: “There have been a large number of improvements made on the Aberdeen to Inverness

route and this new station will provide access to all local residents, and the numerous new developments in the area, to the railway network.

“It will provide an ideal opportunity to further develop the area and develop the train service to include the new station.

“We will be holding an online event on October 29 so you can meet the project team and ask any questions you may have.”

“We hope to have the station open by late 2022 subject to planning permission, other approvals, and final funding decision by the Scottish Government.”

The proposals include the removal of an existing overbridge to the east of the new station, as well as the closure of Dalcross level crossing, although a new footbridge near the crossing would enable continued access across the track for pedestrians and cyclists.

To book a slot and to learn more about the application, visit the Inverness Airport Station website at scotlandsrailway.com/projects/inverness-airport-dalcross-area-enhancements You can also contact the project team via email at InvernessAirportStation@networkrail.co.uk

Inverness Airport’s general manager, Graeme Bell, hailed the latest progress announcement, adding: “A new station will allow easier access and improved connectivity for passengers and will be a significant and welcome addition to Highland infrastructure.”


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