Consultations to begin on government plans for Rest and Be Thankful

And an online virtual exhibition is now live at pinpointcloud.co.uk/A83restandbethankful​

Cabinet Secretary for Transport Fiona Hyslop said: “The Scottish Government remains committed to delivering a long-term solution to the landslip risks at the A83 Rest and Be Thankful.

“It is a clear sign of that ongoing commitment that we are now able to publish draft orders for both the long-term solution and future phases of the medium term solution for the diversionary route along the Old Military Road.”

Ms Hyslop acknowledged the impact that the years of closures and lengthy diversions have had on communities throughout Argyll.

“We share the urgency communities and businesses place on maintaining and improving connectivity of this vital route,” she said. “This is why we are progressing our plans for a long-term, permanent solution to safeguard the A83 by ensuring safe and reliable access for future generations.”

The long-term solution for the Rest and Be Thankful includes a 1.4km long debris-flow shelter and catch pit, drainage works, upgrades to the car park and view point and a new active-travel link from the car park along the B828.

The first phase of improvements to the Old Military Road, which is used as a diversion during closure of the A83, were completed earlier this year and saw the southern end of the route realigned.

The next phase, which is to begin in 2025, will see installation of debris-flow fencing and then further phases of improvements to are planned, including widening of 1.4km of the existing single track road, widening of three sharp bends, a new two-way bridge over the Croe Water and improved drainage and new culverts along the route as well as landslide mitigation measures.

“When these works are completed, it will increase the resilience of the temporary diversion route by reducing the likelihood of landslides impacting it,” Ms Hyslop added. “These improvements will mean more certainty for locals and road users if the A83 has to shut due to adverse weather conditions.”

The public exhibitions planned for January will present the draft orders alongside environmental impact assessments for the Old Military Road and for the debris shelter.

Ms Hyslop said: “I would encourage anyone with an interest in the work to improve the A83 to visit the public exhibitions in January or view the online virtual exhibition to find out more information.

“All of this underlines our commitment to work with local communities and key stakeholders to ensure that Argyll and Bute remains open for business.”