Major landslip closes Scottish road resulting in 60-mile diversion
The clear up operation has progressed well as teams continue to remove over 1000 tonnes of debris from the main A83 carriageway.
Works will continue into the weekend to complete the removal of debris, re-establish drainage and help stabilise the slope above the A83 and will continue to work hard to re-open the main carriageway as quickly as possible.
What has happened at the Rest and Be Thankful?
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Hide AdOver 86mm of rainfall fell in the local area in the two days before the landslip occurred.
Around 3.00am on 30/1/20 – reports of approximately 1000 Tonnes of debris on the A83 at the Rest and Be Thankful – east of the normal area covered by debris fences and catchpits.
The landslide appears to have been triggered by a slip in the forested area high above the road.
The A83 re-opened via The Old Military Road at 11:00am on 30th January after safety inspections by geotechnical specialists confirmed it was safe to do so.
The Old Military Road (OMR) diversion route has operated under convoy to minimise disruption.
The clear up operation and slope stabilisation is currently well underway.
What alternative travel options are available at the Rest and Be Thankful, other than the Old Military Road local diversion route?
Ferry provider Western Ferries can also accommodate traffic. Up to date information available at www.western-ferries.co.uk by phone 01369 704452 or email [email protected]
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Hide AdBEAR Scotland along with teams from Forestry and Land Scotland have been on site clearing the debris when it is safe to do so.
A diversion had to be put in place via Crianlarich, Tyndrum, Dalmally and Inveraray, a distance of 58.8 miles.
As of 11am today, the A83 was opened to road users via the Old Military Road, ensuring Argyll was open for business.
Eddie Ross, BEAR Scotland's north west manager, said: "Safety is our top priority and we're doing all we can to assess the slope and the extent of the debris from the steep hillside above the carriageway.
"As ever, we thank the local community and road users for their patience, and assure them we're doing everything we can to address the landslip at the Rest and Be Thankful as quickly and safely as we can.
"We remind road users that Argyll remains open for business and rest assured we're doing everything possible to ensure the A83 opens as soon as it is safe to do so."
He advised road users should to check Traffic Scotland for the latest information.