Thousands of motorists warned to expect delays as vital crossing and road shuts

The project which begins on September 30, will involve a full corrosion inspection and replacement of rails, sleepers, and ballast.

The move is estimated to impact roughly 4698 vehicles as well as pedestrians and cyclists who use the route.

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The work will be carried out in two phases, with full and partial road closures affecting the A835.

Drivers, particularly those heading to the Stornoway ferry, are advised to plan ahead and expect longer alternative routes during full closure periods.

The crossing will be completely closed overnight on Monday September 30, and again on the weekend of October 19 and 20.

Temporary traffic lights will be in place on several nights in October, as well as during daytime and evening hours on Saturday October 19.

Phase 1 of the project will see a full road closure from 9pm to 4am on September 30. Meanwhile, half road closures will be in place from 9pm to 4am each night on October 1, 2, and 3.

Phase 2 includes full road closures from 9pm to 6am on October 19 and 20 as well as half road closure in effect from 4am to 9pm on October 19, and from 9pm to 4am on October 21 and 22.

Access for pedestrians and cyclists will be maintained via the station footbridge throughout the works.

Emergency services will have access during full closures, but all other traffic will be restricted.

However, the maintenance work is expected to cause significant disruption for drivers, particularly those travelling to catch the ferry to Stornoway.

Network Rail in response has urged motorists to plan their journeys in advance, as longer alternative routes will be necessary during full closure periods.

David MacLean, Network Rail's level crossing manager for the Inverness area, said: "The route is important for traffic heading for the ferry to Stornoway, so we're encouraging everyone to plan ahead, particularly when the road is closed fully, as longer alternative routes will need to be taken on those dates."

Network Rail will also work closely with BEAR Scotland and Highland Council to inform road users about the situation.

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MacLean added: “The work we're completing at Garve level crossing is essential to the safe and reliable running of the railway.

“The crossing equipment and surrounding track is regularly monitored as part of Network Rail's rolling maintenance and inspection programme to make sure it's safe and operating as designed.

"We appreciate everyone's patience and understanding while we complete this project, which will reduce overall disruption for both passengers and road users for years to come."

The project is part of Network Rail's commitment to maintaining over 20,000 miles of track and 6,000 level crossings.