The eagerly awaited reopening of the Cairngorm Mountain funicular railway has been delayed beyond December, disappointing those hoping for a festive return.
Balfour Beatty, the contractor responsible for the extensive viaduct repairs, has completed much of the remediation work but has identified additional areas requiring attention after detailed inspections.
Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), which owns the Cairngorm Estate, will meet with contractors and consultants in early January to reassess the remaining tasks and set a revised timeline for reopening the railway.
Safety remains the priority, with a series of mechanical tests, trial runs, and staff training planned once the construction phase concludes.
HIE will also continue to liaise closely with the Health and Safety Executive throughout the process.
While the funicular is out of action, Cairngorm Mountain (Scotland) Ltd, which operates the resort, has kicked off the winter season using manufactured snow in the beginners’ area, accessible directly from the car park.
Surface lifts will come into operation to provide access for skiing and snowboarding at higher altitudes when natural snowfall permits.
Snowsports enthusiasts are encouraged to stay updated on conditions via the resort’s website, www.cairngormmountain.co.uk, where regular reports are published.
HIE has promised further updates in January, with hopes that the railway will soon resume its iconic service, enhancing the mountain’s appeal for visitors and locals alike.
