A preferred route option for the A82 Tarbet to Inverarnan upgrade has been identified which closely follows the existing stretch of the road.
The next phase of the £8 million design work, including a detailed ground investigation and topographical survey, will now be progressed with a view to preparing draft Orders for the scheme.
Scottish Transport Minister Derek Mackay said: “The 10 mile section of the A82 between Tarbet and Inverarnan runs between the iconic Loch Lomond and the stunning hills that border it, so it is important that 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. We are now stepping up the work with the next stage of design costing over £8 million leading to the publication of draft Orders for the scheme in 2017.
“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.
“Coupled with the completed Pulpit Rock improvement and Crianlarich Bypass schemes, already bringing improved road safety and journey time reliability, we are committed to upgrading the A82 which is a vital economic and social lifeline as it connects businesses and communities in the Highlands and Islands with the central belt.”
Over the next few months BEAR Scotland, will be undertaking an intensive programme of short term improvements which will include vegetation and tree canopy clearance, clearance and improvement of the existing drainage system, and the removal of loose stones and rocks from the verge of the existing A82.
The feasibility of further medium term interim improvements such as localised schemes to widen the road at tight bends and additional improvements to the drainage system along the route will also be investigated.
