Move to end A83 traffic delays

A temporary traffic light system has replaced the convoy operation on the A83 at the Rest and Be Thankful during daylight hours, writes Ellis Butcher.

As travel restrictions across the country lifted on Friday April 16, the aim of the changes is to help cut motorist waiting times when passing through Glen Croe where work continues, said BEAR Scotland.

But one lane remains closed for the safety of the public and operatives.

BEAR Scotland said the lane closure would remain in place throughout ‘most of 2021’ until the work is complete.

The lane closure is needed to allow access to heavy machinery and equipment.

One lane of the A83 has been open under convoy during the daytime since January 8, dependent on the weather. It was brought in to safely escort traffic past the steep channel formed by landslips last year.

The convoy system will remain in place at night as hillside conditions are monitored during the hours of darkness.

Eddie Ross, BEAR Scotland’s north west representative, said: ‘Switching to traffic light operation on the A83 at the Rest will help to reduce motorist waiting times, meaning less disruption to journeys into Argyll.

‘With travel restrictions easing across the country, we’re expecting an increase in traffic across the road network so hopefully this change in operation will help reduce any impact to journey times while still ensuring we are keeping people safe when travelling through Glen Croe.

He said teams had made good progress in strengthening the mitigation measures above and below the A83.

‘We’re continuing to operate a safety-first approach and will only keep the A83 in operation if we are absolutely content it is safe to do so.

‘The Old Military Road will remain on standby ready to be used as an alternative route through the glen should weather conditions deteriorate.’

Motorists are advised to keep a check on journey information on www.trafficscotland.org.