More inspections for Benderloch wall

BEAR Scotland engineers are to decide how a crumbling retaining wall at Benderloch should be fixed.

There were fears that cracks appearing in the wall below the Sustrans cyclepath near Benderloch viewpoint were putting the busy A828 at risk of collapse.

Previously, both Transport Scotland and BEAR Scotland said the wall was not their responsibility but, after a report was carried out by council officials, a way forward has now been made.

The council report recommending remedial work was sent to Transport Scotland.

This week a spokesperson for BEAR Scotland said: ‘Following discussions with Transport Scotland, it has been agreed that the section of wall in question, as an integral part of the A828 cycleway, is best maintained as part of the trunk road network and will fall under our responsibility moving forwards. Our initial inspections have determined that there is no risk to the A828 trunk road or the cycleway, however prior to any future remedial work we’ll erect some signs at the wall as a precaution to advise beach-users to avoid the structure for safety.’

Ardchattan community councillor Willie Barnett said: ‘This shows how the community and some committed individuals and our ward councillors can bring about a positive result.

‘Thanks to Transport Scotland for adopting the damaged wall.

‘Also thanks to Councillor Elaine Robertson who formally kicked off the inquiries with the district council and followed it through to the end. Lewis Morrison, who previously was the chairman of the community council, was extremely active in bringing this about.’