Welcome extended to all attendees from the Minister for Transport, Fiona Hyslop MSP
The Minister for Transport, Fiona Hyslop MSP (FH), welcomed everyone to the 25th meeting of the A83 Taskforce.
FH noted that she would have liked to have met the Taskforce face-to-face in Arrochar as originally planned. However, due to the amber weather warning in place, it was more appropriate and safer to hold a virtual meeting.
FH informed the group that there continues to be positive engagement through the Taskforce, and reaffirmed the Scottish Government’s commitment to keep Argyll & Bute open for business.
FH outlined that the preferred route option for the long-term permanent solution was announced in June last year and the next step of the detailed design of the preferred route is progressing at pace, with draft Orders targeted to be published by the end of this year. Progress thereafter will depend on any representations received, including any objections, to the published draft Orders.
FH reassured the group that the delivery of the permanent long-term solution (LTS) is a priority and we will continue to seek ways to achieve this as quickly as possible.
FH added that at the same time improvements to the medium-term solution (MTS) at the Old Military Road (OMR) will be delivered which includes phase one – the realignment of the southern end of the route. This commenced on site in December and work is ongoing at present. It is expected that the remainder of the MTS works will be carried out on a phased basis.
FH also confirmed that significant ground investigations for both the MTS and LTS will be commencing shortly. The information obtained from these essential works will inform the ongoing design work.
FH reflected on the previous Taskforce, noting how helpful it had been to hear from BEAR Scotland with respect to the alert levels on the A83 at the time and immediately prior to the storm that arrived the following day which resulted in landslides on the A83 and wider impacts to transportation across Scotland.
FH added that she is keen to hear views and receive feedback from Taskforce members on matters discussed and there will be an opportunity to do so following each of the presentations.