A83 diversion open overnight to reduce disruption

The Old Military Road local diversion route at the A83 Rest and Be Thankful remained open last night to help reduce disruption while the trunk road remains closed.

Geotechnical assessments and consideration of a detailed weather forecast for the area deemed the condition of the hillside safe to allow the diversion to run during hours of darkness.

Teams worked through the night to help ensure the Old Military Road operated safely, including installing specialist lighting and stationing extra patrols and a recovery vehicle at the site.

Teams installed a temporary debris fence above the A83 Tarbet to Campbeltown road to replace one which was heavily damaged by multiple landslips last week, allowing the diversion below to open safely overnight.

“Operations will continue during the next few days”

Operations will continue during the next few days to prepare the A83 for reopening.

Eddie Ross, Bear Scotland’s north west manager, said: “Teams have made good progress on site with the installation of a new temporary debris-fence completed today next to the A83 carriageway.

“This means there is sufficient protection overnight for motorists to continue using the Old Military Road.

“A thorough geotechnical assessment and a close look at the weather forecast overnight has meant we can safely keep the Old Military Road open overnight.

“This will help to reduce disruption to road users in Argyll while the A83 carriageway is worked on.

“For safety, the route will be monitored for any change in weather conditions throughout the night as a precaution.

“We ask road users to please drive safely during the convoy through the Old Military Road and adhere to the speed limit which is in place for everyone’s safety.

“We’ll continue to do all we can to ensure the A83 opens as soon as it is safe to do so.

“And we thank the local community and motorists for their patience while we work to address the multiple landslips at the Rest and Be Thankful.”