Work begins on barrier for stretch of road hit by landslips

Work has begun on installing a temporary barrier on a stretch of road in Argyll vulnerable to landslips.

A 175 metre long and six metre high barrier will be positioned next to Old Military Road.

The aim is to increase protection on the road, often used as a local diversion to the A83 Rest and Be Thankful.

The work is expected to be completed by Christmas, although the transport secretary said this will be “weather permitting”.

Once in place it will enable further use of the diversion during adverse weather.

Work will also begin this month to build deer fences, which will protect a range of trees planted next autumn to help maximise stability of the hillside.

Transport secretary Michael Matheson said: “I’m delighted that our contractors have begun construction of a new 175 metre debris barrier above the Old Military Road, and that the work will be complete before Christmas, weather permitting.

“This will provide greater resilience to the local diversion, helping to ensure continuity of access to the region. I look forward to visiting the site as soon as is appropriate to see this work for myself.

“I would like to thank the local stakeholders and businesses who I met this week to discuss our continuing work to deliver landslide mitigation measures.

“Their support and partnership working will be key to identifying a long-term solution.”