Pulpit Rock Work Gathers Pace

Scotland’s Transport Minister today visited the A82 to see the progress made to remove a notorious bottleneck at Pulpit Rock.

Keith Brown saw for himself the prompt progress that has been made on this ambitious project which got underway at the end of May. Piling work along the existing road which is required to support the main structure is ongoing, with further piling planned for the near future.

A temporary platform, which currently holds a drilling rig has also been constructed alongside the road to enable much of the work to be carried out without the need for a road closure.

Contractor, McLaughlin & Harvey, were on hand to explain the innovative plan in place to deliver the project.

Speaking at the site of the work, the Minister said:

“Work at Pulpit Rock is progressing well and over the coming weeks road users will see the work gather pace as the rock is excavated and visibility improved.

“Drivers will also enjoy an early benefit from some earthworks being removed which will enable the sharp bend at this notorious bottleneck to be smoothed out and the road widened.

“I am pleased to see the Contractor and Transport Scotland’s ongoing efforts to minimise disruption in delivering this work – mindful of the strategic importance of this key route between the Highlands and Islands and the central belt, and its natural beauty which attracts many tourists, whilst also dealing with the complex engineering aspects a project of this nature requires. “

The project remains on schedule to be completed in late Spring 2014.

Pictures of todays visit are available on request from Peter Devlin contact number 07786808989 or 01360 310289