The planned closure of the level crossing across the A890 at Balnacra between Achnasheen and Lochcarron on ScotRail’s line from Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh will take place overnight from 22.00 Sunday, 24 until 06:00 Monday, 25 September.

The closure is required to allow Network Rail engineers to carry out a safety inspection and essential maintenance at the level crossing in the safest and most efficient way. The exact location of the level crossing is 13 miles south-west of Achnasheen and 7 miles north-east of Lochcarron.

During the closure, engineers will remove the modules that make up the crossing’s road surface to enable engineers to inspect the railway lines for signs of corrosion and build-up of silt, while assessing the need for any future maintenance.

Whilst the crossing is closed, no vehicles will be able to use the crossing except for emergency vehicles.

To make sure that level crossings operate safely and effectively, every level crossing has a programme of inspection. Because of the remoteness of Balnacra level crossing and the inconvenience the road closure will cause, Network Rail has been working closely with Highland Council to inform road users and will endeavour to keep the duration of the closure to an absolute minimum.

The overnight closure may adversely affect properties nearest to the crossing, and Network Rail is advising residents in those properties of the inconvenience and is thanking them in advance for their patience.

Lee Ross, Infrastructure Maintenance Delivery Manager for Network Rail said: “We’re carrying out this inspection as part of our monitoring programme designed to keep the level crossing operating safely and effectively.

“Closing the road overnight means that our team can work in the safest possible environment while completing the job with the minimum of disruption.

“We thank the community for its patience while we carry out this essential work.”