'Long-term solution' to tackle Rest and Be Thankful landslip risk goes to public consultation

Public consultations are set to take place for a long-term solution to the landslip-plagued Rest and Be Thankful.

The stretch of the A83 has been prone to landslides during adverse weather conditions with £470m plans to develop a debris flow shelter on the road put in place last June.

The road between Arrochar and Inveraray was hit with a landslide in October and plans developed by Transport Scotland are aiming to mitigate against road closures due to landslides.

The public events will also provide updates on the work to deliver a medium-term solution along the Old Military Road until long-term plans can be put in place.

Fiona Hyslop, cabinet secretary for transport said: “The Scottish Government is steadfast in its commitment to delivering a long-term solution to the landslip risks at the A83 Rest and Be Thankful.

“The announcement last June of the preferred route option for the long-term solution was a significant confirmation of our commitment to improve the route.

“The design work for this is being progressed at pace with a view to publishing draft orders by the end of this year.

Plans to improve the Rest and Be Thankful Transport Scotland

“At the same time, we are progressing our plans to increase the resilience of the temporary diversion route along the Old Military Road.

“The first phase of the work to realign the southern end of this route, reducing the risk of flooding, is well under way and expected to be complete this spring.

“These public engagement events starting today in Campbeltown will update local communities and road users on progress including the emerging design of the debris flow shelter for the long-term solution, proposals for the car park at the Rest and Be Thankful and how we will take forward the next phases of the work to improve the Old Military Road.

“A virtual exhibition is also now live for those unable to attend the public events.

“I would encourage anyone with an interest in this work to attend one of the events or view our plans online and give us their views.

“All of this underlines the Scottish Government’s commitment to keep people informed of the work underway and also to work with key stakeholders and local communities to ensure that Argyll and Bute remains open for business.”

Public events will take place on Monday, March 18 from 10am to 4pm at the South Kintyre Development Trust Hall in Campbeltown.

On Tuesday, March 19 an event will be held from 12pm to 7pm at Lochgilphead Baptist Church.

Further consultations will take place on Wednesday, March 20 between 10am and 4pm at Lochgoilhead Village Hall and on Thursday, March 21 from 10am to 4pm at the Three Villages Hall in Arrochar.