Medium-term solution

The purpose of the Medium-Term Solution (MTS) is to deliver a safe, proportionate and more resilient diversion route along the Old Military Road (OMR) when the A83 is closed.

The interventions will be in place prior to the construction of the Long-Term Solution (LTS) and reduce disruption to road users during the construction of the debris flow shelter.

Phase 1

Realign the OMR at the southern end at its junction with the A83 avoiding the area prone to flooding. This work is well underway.

Phase 2

Landslide mitigation including bunds and debris fences as well as drainage improvements and discrete widening of bends.

Phase 3

Extend the length of road available for two-way traffic.

Progress

Phase 1 A83 and OMR southern junction realignment

• The detailed design is complete, informed by ground investigation
• Following the commencement of preparatory works in December 2023, construction work is progressing well and, subject to weather, is scheduled for completion this Spring.

Phase 2 Landslide mitigation, drainage improvements and widening of bends on OMR

• Design work is well advanced and will be informed by the detailed ground investigation
• A key design change is the relocation of debris flow fences to above the A83 improving the resilience of the A83 and the OMR in the medium-term. The relocated fencing will also provide protection for the workforce during the construction of the LTS

Phase 3 extension of two-way width on the OMR

• Design work is well advanced and will be informed by the ground investigation
• The extension of the OMR for two-way widening and a reduction in the length of convoy operation results in average journey times reducing by one third (approximately 10 minutes). This journey time improvement on the existing OMR operation aims to provide improvements both in the medium-term and long-term (during the LTS construction).