Remote Argyll community remains cut off a month after 6,000-tonne landslip

A remote community remains cut off from a vital road link in Argyll almost a month after record-breaking rainfall caused a severe landslip.

The Craignish peninsula in Argyll was battered by rain in early October, causing a landslip on the A816 near Ardfern on October 7 which saw 6,000 tonnes of debris cover the road, blocking access to the peninsula.

Weeks later, much of the debris remains on the road, blocking the peninsula’s access to the nearest town, Lochgilphead.

Residents still face weeks of disruption as a result of the landslip.

Access is available from the north, with drivers having to take a long route round to reach Lochgilphead.

Businesses in the area say they are facing a “fight for survival” with many still feeling the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic and cost-of-living crisis.

A group led by charity Craignish Community Company is vowing to do all it can to help businesses get through the disruption.

Chairwoman Vicki Burnett said the group is “open for business and united”.

She said: “We’re taking a two-pronged approach.

“We want to keep this issue in the spotlight to encourage the local authority and their contractors to get this work done as quickly as possible and to make sure any additional support we’re entitled to comes here.

“But we’re also pleading with the wider Argyll and West of Scotland community – don’t forget about us.

“Many of these businesses won’t survive six weeks with no income.

“We are still open, we’d love to see you and it could be a great time to enjoy a deal or a discount.”

Businesses including Lucy’s Cafe, the Galley of Lorne and Lord of the Isles pubs, Ardfern Yacht Centre, Craobh Haven Marina and many independent arts and crafts professionals have set up the craignish.info website as a hub so locals and visitors can stay up to date with what’s available and the latest information.

The annual Craignish Christmas market is due to go ahead on the weekend of November 18-19 with local businesses pinning their hopes on a large turnout.

Ms Burnett said: “Many of these businesses are ready and willing to do whatever it takes to serve customers through this difficult time.”