Opening of Cairngorm Funicular Delayed Once Again
24th December 2024
It is no surprise to many and there has been criticism as the news was released late on Xmas Eve. NEW
The return of the funicular railway at Cairngorm Mountain in Scotland will not take place in December as had been hoped.
It was announced earlier this month that it was finally about to open:
The contractor, Balfour Beatty, has substantially completed a works programme to strengthen the 1.8km viaduct, however detailed inspections have shown that further work is required in some areas.
Cairngorm Estate owner Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), along with the contractor and consultants, will review the scope and nature of the outstanding works early in January.
They say there is “a view to bringing the funicular back as early as possible in the new year”.
Once the remediation works have been concluded, a series of mechanical safety testing, trial runs and staff training will follow.
At the same time, HIE will maintain ongoing dialogue with the Health and Safety Executive.
In the meantime, resort operator Cairngorm Mountain (Scotland) Ltd has launched its winter season with manufactured snow providing cover in the beginners’ area which can be accessed from the car park.
When there is suitable natural snowfall to enable skiing and snowboarding at higher levels, surface lifts will be available to provide access.
HIE will provide a further update in January.
Already one PlanetSKI reader has commented “Poor show to put this out late Christmas Eve” as the news was released.
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