Work has been underway to improve the habitat around the Glenfinnan Viaduct.

The two year enhancement project is now complete.

The project saw a £300k investment from both Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) and Network Rail.

Network Rail has recognised the impact that line management has on the surrounding trees and vegetation.

Further recognition has pointed towards the resulting impact that work has on biodiversity along Scotland’s rail network.

As part of the project, trees have been planted across 200 hectares in order to restore forest and peatland habitats, which are vital environments.

The restoration these types of ecosytems will reduce flood risk for the line, reduce carbon levels and help Scotlands climate goals.

Fencing has also been placed at Ardmolich to protect the woodland from over grazing from deer.

“We’re delighted to have worked with FLS to protect and enhance Scotland’s unique natural environment.

“To date, this has been the most ambitious biodiversity enhancement project undertaken by Network Rail in Scotland.

“This project has enabled us to balance the removal of trees and vegetation elsewhere on the railway on a scale that would not be possible by replanting purely within our own boundaries. The long-term result of this activity is expected to be an uplift in biodiversity across the project area.

“Rail is already one of the greenest forms of transport and we are working to reduce our industry’s impact on the environment through further electrification of our network and also by supporting innovative projects like this one.”

Liam Sumpter, managing director, Network Rail Scotland