ScotRail is providing an early morning train to ensure that Plockton High pupils can get to school – free of charge – while the Stromeferry bypass remains closed.
The A 890 Lochcarron – Kyle/Plockton road has been closed since 22 December as the result of landslides and the continuing danger of further rock fall. The red eye service, the 06.12 Inverness-Kyle of Lochalsh, transports the children to Plockton before 9.00.
Other passengers can also buy tickets for the service. However to free up rolling stock the 07.26 Elgin-Inverness train is being replaced by a bus.
Says Jerry Farquharson, Scot Rail’s director of business planning, ‘We’ve worked closely with Highland Council and HITRANS to put this plan in place. It means that pupils will be able to get to school over the coming weeks with as little disruption as possible – and without incurring any extra travel costs.’
Local leaders have welcomed the rail rescue. Says Dr Michael Foxley, Highland Council leader, ‘This is great news. ScotRail’s cooperation is much appreciated, particularly as the children will get to travel for free.’
