Scotland loses Harry Potter attraction as iconic steam train halted
Scotland's so-called "Harry Potter Train" has halted its service until further notice amid a dispute over safety regulations, depriving visiting fans of the books and films of a major spot for selfies.
The steam train is seen snaking its way across the Glenfinnan Viaduct in two Harry Potter movies as the Hogwarts Express between Mallaig on the Scottish west coast and Fort William at the foot of the highest British mountain, Ben Nevis.
The operator West Coast Railways (WCR) said that the train would not operate until a decision is made as to whether the historic steam train can continue to run without the safety measure of central locking.
The region is popular with tourists trying to catch a photo of the steam train in action, and the company said the service's cancellations would mean lasting damage to tourism, as well as a loss of revenue of up to 50 million pounds ($63.9 million).
The link was operated with a special exception for more than 30 years. The regulatory authority, the Office of Rail and Road (ORR), must now decide whether to extend it. The railway company says that its business will be destroyed if retrofits costing millions become necessary.
The route is not only a favourite for Hogwarts Express trainspotters, but also for "Trainspotting" fans, as a scene from the 1996 cult Scottish film takes place at Corrour station, which at 408 metres is the highest and most remote station in the UK.
