Designs for upgrade of Loch Lomond A82 unveiled

The view across Loch Lomond to Inveruglas. Picture: Transport Scotland

Transport minister Derek Mackay also confirmed the ten-mile stretch between Tarbet and Inverarnan at the northern end of the loch would be widened and straightened rather than taking a new route, as was announced last year.

The £215–285 million scheme will include building two viaducts, nine bridges and 25 walls on part of the Glasgow-Fort William road which dates back to the 1920s.

Construction is still some way off, with the final scheme not due to be published until 2017.

The Tarbet Inverarnan 'Road Cross Section'. Picture: Traffic Scotland

However, Mr Mackay said interim improvements would include widening some bends, clearing vegetation and drains, and removing loose rocks from verges.

The current £8 million design work follows the opening in May of a £9m widened section of that part of the route at Pulpit Rock, which removed traffic lights controlling a single-track stretch after 30 years.

Mr Mackay said of the current upgrade: “The section runs between the iconic Loch Lomond and the stunning hills that border it, so it is important this scheme overcomes the challenges of the topography while maintaining the world-renowned beauty of the area.

“Following route option assessment work, we are now able to confirm that the preferred route option will closely follow the existing road.

“In addition, we are determined to enhance the existing route in the interim, and that is why we are working to identify and implement a programme of short and medium term measures, including vegetation and drainage clearance and bend widening where it is possible.”

Designs are on display at Three Villages Hall in Arrochar today, Crianlarich Village Hall tomorrow, Kilmore and Oban Parish Church Centre in Oban on Friday, and Duncansburgh MacIntosh Church Hall in Fort William on Tuesday, 6 October.