Enhanced landslide mitigation for A83 - Further investment outlined

This commitment from Transport Scotland is in addition to the £3 million pounds already committed to the on-going programme for 2015/2016. Bringing the total investment in landslide mitigation at the Rest and Be Thankful to £13.5 million.

The work programme includes widening the Old Military Road to add resilience to the local diversion route, further enhancements to the debris netting which has prevented 2,300 tonnes of debris reaching the road since its introduction and improvements at various points along the route.

Transport Minister, Derek Mackay said:

“More than £50 million has been invested in the A83 since 2007 underlining the Scottish Government’s commitment to keeping Argyll and Bute open for business.

“The most recent landslides have shown that the mitigation measures introduced, including netting, catchpits and culverts, are doing their job with thousands of tonnes of debris being caught on various occasions.

“The elements have thrown some horrendous conditions our way, especially at the end of last year with the wettest December on record. We are already learning lessons from the events that occurred as a result of the exceptional rainfall and the additional investment being outlined today will help strengthen our response further.

“We are listening to the concerns of the local community and taking action to further enhance the Old Military Road. We will continue to work with all interested parties as we move forward with the on-going improvements on the A83.”