John Carson highlights serious flaws in the Cairngorm mountain railway's construction and repairs.
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The Cairngorm mountain railway, a vital link for winter sports enthusiasts, is facing renewed scrutiny following alarming statements from a prominent Scottish engineer. John Carson, a seasoned professional with a rich background in civil engineering, has expressed serious doubts about the longevity and safety of the recent repairs made to the funicular railway.
Questionable construction choices
Carson, who previously led the team behind the Skye Bridge, criticized the decision to construct the railway using precast concrete beams instead of more durable steel. He likened the repairs to “putting lipstick on a pig,” suggesting that the underlying structural issues remain unresolved.
The railway, which was shut down in 2018 and reopened in January 2023 after extensive repairs costing £25 million, has already faced further closures due to ongoing problems.
Expert insights on structural integrity
With a career spanning decades, Carson’s insights carry weight. He pointed out that the stainless steel brackets used in conjunction with the concrete beams are likely to expand and contract with temperature changes, potentially leading to cracks and deflections in the beams. His concerns extend to the overall design, questioning whether the original engineers adequately calculated the span-to-depth ratio for the beams, especially given the harsh mountain environment.
Financial implications and future of the railway
The financial ramifications of these engineering decisions are significant. Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), the agency responsible for the railway, has already faced criticism for the substantial public funds allocated to the project. Last year, HIE secured £11 million after legal action against the companies involved in the railway’s design and construction. Carson’s warnings raise critical questions about the management of public resources and the future viability of the railway.
Despite the concerns raised, HIE remains optimistic about the railway’s future. A spokesperson stated that remediation works are progressing well and emphasized their commitment to safety. They assured the public that rigorous testing and safety checks would be conducted before the railway is reopened for the winter sports season.
As the situation unfolds, the fate of the Cairngorm mountain railway hangs in the balance, with both engineering integrity and public trust at stake.
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