The resilience work on the Old Military Road in Glen Croe is set to finish by spring, asserts Transport Scotland. This initiative aims to maintain accessibility when the main route faces landslips.
- The Old Military Road serves as a crucial diversion route below the A83, activated during adverse weather conditions causing the main route to become impassable.
- Work includes the construction of a new connector road, enhancing its resilience by relocating it to a less flood-prone area.
- Detailed ground investigations are scheduled to commence in April to inform future phases of the project.
- The government is committed to implementing a long-term solution to landslip risks along the A83.
Transport Scotland has undertaken significant work to enhance the resilience of the Old Military Road, which operates as a vital diversion below the A83 when the main route above, known as the Rest and Be Thankful, becomes impassable due to landslides or flooding conditions. This project is crucial for maintaining access and transport continuity in the region, particularly during adverse weather conditions.
The improvement work involves the construction of a new connector road from the A83 to the southern end of the Old Military Road. By shifting this connector 100 metres north to an area less susceptible to flooding, the resilience and reliability of the temporary diversion route are substantially improved. This strategic relocation is designed to mitigate flood risks, ensuring the route remains operational as needed.
In furtherance of these efforts, detailed ground investigations led by Soil Engineering Geoservices are slated to begin in April. These investigations will last around eight weeks, weather permitting, and are intended to inform the subsequent stages of the ongoing project. The appointment of a specialised contractor for this £1.6 million contract highlights the commitment to advancing these enhancements efficiently and effectively.
Fiona Hyslop, the Cabinet Secretary for Transport, emphasised the government’s dedication to identifying a sustainable, long-term solution to mitigate the landslip risks along the A83. She noted the announcement of the preferred route option last June as a pivotal milestone in this ongoing commitment. The government aims to publish draft orders by the year’s end as part of this long-term strategy.
In addition to the immediate enhancements, plans are underway for a £470 million mile-long debris flow shelter along the Rest and Be Thankful. This structure is designed to protect vehicles from falling rocks and landslips and represents a significant investment in ensuring road safety and strategic route reliability.
The ongoing improvements on the Old Military Road are an essential component of ensuring reliable transportation routes in the Glen Croe valley, reflecting the broader commitment to enhancing transport resilience in the face of environmental challenges.
