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New railway fences to stop Harry Potter fans trespassing at iconic bridge

Five kilometres of fencing is set to be installed along a Scottish railway line to stop Harry Potter fans from trespassing on the tracks to take photos.


The Glenfinnan Viaduct, known for its historical ties to the 1745 Jacobite Rebellion, has become iconic for its appearance in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets in 2002, attracting 500,000 visitors annually.


Network Rail, responsible for maintaining train infrastructure in the UK, is investing £500,000 to build new barriers near the viaduct.


Image of Glenfinnan Viaduct in Scotland


The new fencing will replace older barriers that separate the railway from public areas and will be designed to blend with the stunning West Highlands landscape.


According to The Scotsman, the number of visitors to Glenfinnan has increased tenfold since the first Harry Potter films were released in the early 2000s.


This rise in popularity has raised safety concerns, as fans often trespass onto the tracks to capture the perfect photo of passing trains.


Hayley Simpson, project manager for Network Rail, said: “Our investment in renewing the fencing at Glenfinnan will help secure the railway and ensure public safety while allowing people to enjoy the famous views of the viaduct and its surroundings.”


Image of Glenfinnan Viaduct in Scotland

“The work will be carried out without affecting train services, and the fencing will complement the natural beauty of the area without interfering with walking trails or the spectacular scenery,” she added.


Trees and vegetation will be cleared to make space for the new fencing, which Network Rail says will improve public views of the viaduct.


The project is scheduled to begin later this month and will take just under a year to complete. Train services will remain unaffected, and the viaduct’s iconic appearance will not be altered.


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