Traffic at the Rest and Be Thankful will be redirected for an extended period, potentially years, as a safety shelter is constructed over the A83 road. The area has faced multiple closures due to landslides, leading to detours along the Old Military Road.
Transport Scotland has invested over £11 million since 2014 to address landslips at the Rest and Be Thankful. The new plan involves building a 1.4km long tunnel-like shelter to prevent debris from falling onto the road.
During a meeting of the Argyll and Bute Council, it was disclosed that the construction of the shelter would require the use of the Old Military Road for an extended period. Before the project commences, enhancements will be made to the parallel road to accommodate two-way traffic, although the north-west end will remain single-track with traffic management measures in place.
Although there was a suggestion to use a forestry route on the western side of Glen Crow, it was dismissed due to similar landslide risks. The executive director emphasized that traffic will be rerouted to the Old Military Road throughout the construction phase, which could last years depending on the completion of construction plans.
Council leader Jim Lynch expressed the council’s commitment to finding a permanent solution for the ongoing issue at the Rest and Be Thankful. He highlighted the importance of the A83 road as a vital connection for Argyll and Bute’s growth and success. Lynch pledged to advocate for the best outcomes for the region, including addressing the challenges faced by the Rest and Be Thankful area.