Due to the arrival of Storm Bert and forecast for heavy snow followed by rain and snow melt on Saturday, BEAR Scotland will be opening the Old Military Road as a precaution from mid-afternoon on Saturday 23 November to allow road users travelling along the A83 Rest and Be Thankful to continue their journey safely. It is currently anticipated that traffic will be rerouted at 2pm but exact timing is subject to the extent of snow that will require to be cleared.
A decision will be made about returning traffic to the A83 trunk road by midday on Sunday 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 snow and rainfall is expected from Saturday morning which will significantly increase saturation levels on the hillside. With further rain and snow melt expected, 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 Sunday 24 November and this will inform a decision to return traffic to the A83.”
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.
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