Old Military Road diversion as wet and windy weather closes in

A decision will be made about returning traffic to the A83 trunk road by midday on Monday morning following a hillside inspection and subject to the forecast improving.

Use of the short local diversion protects road users and maintains traffic flow along the A83 corridor ensuring access to and from Argyll and Bute.

Ian Stewart, BEAR Scotland’s North West Representative, said: “The safety of road users is the priority for BEAR Scotland and we closely monitor conditions at the Rest and Be Thankful on a daily basis.

“Heavy rainfall is expected from this afternoon and it is forecast to continue into Saturday, which will significantly increase saturation levels on the hillside.

"With further rain expected at times over the remainder of the weekend, becoming heavier and more persistent into Sunday morning, we have made the decision to utilise the Old Military Road as a proactive safety measure.

“The use of this route maintains access to the A83 corridor for the travelling public, keeping Argyll very much open for business with minimal delays of around 20 minutes.

“Subject to the weather improving, we plan to inspect the hillside thoroughly on Monday October 21 and this will inform a decision to return traffic to the A83.”

The last landslide on the hillside above the A83 at the Rest and be Thankful occurred on Sunday September 15 this year when 500 tonnes of material was caught by the debris pits and fences. 

However, the Old Military Road diversion has been brought into use each time heavy or prolonged rain has been forecast since that incident.

Real time journey information is available from Traffic Scotland A83 Rest and Be Thankful and X @trafficscotland. Ferry options are also available, check www.western-ferries.co.uk.

Find more information on the traffic management process at the Rest and Be Thankful here.