BEAR Scotland, working on behalf of Transport Scotland, are to take forward further landslide mitigation measures at the A83 Rest and be Thankful.

Following a very wet period in February, a movement on the hillside occurred in an area previously considered stable.  It is located above the roadside retaining wall, close to where a temporary trailer mounted rockfall fence is currently situated on the eastbound lane of the A83.  The area in question has become highly saturated despite being between the main water flows off the hillside. Following a period of monitoring, using a combination of site surveys and timelapse photography, it has now been decided to take forward the construction of an additional debris fence, spanning the gap between debris pits previously installed.

The work is due to commence in late July once the design and procurement of the new fence is complete. In the meantime, the A83 is continuing to be operated under a higher level of alert. A combination of hillside observations and monitoring of saturation and forecast weather is being used on a daily basis to ensure the safe operation of the road. Traffic signals are currently in place to manage road users through the glen and, during sustained periods of rain a convoy system is being used. Only during very wet periods is the use of the Old Military Road, which runs parallel to the A83, being considered.

Whilst the traffic signals are in place, ground investigation, for the medium and long term improvements planned for the A83 Rest and be Thankful, have now commenced, taking advantage of the traffic management.

Ian Stewart, BEAR Scotland’s North West Representative said, “The safety of road users is paramount and through close monitoring of the hillside we have identified this area of concern before it has impacted the road. Our careful management of the situation has also ensured that the road has remained open throughout a relatively wet spring and early summer albeit under traffic control. This has helped keep Argyll open for business and whilst we appreciate the frustration traffic delays can cause, the safe operation of the route is vital.”