Recently installed road markings on the A85 at Achnacloich Railway Bridge between Oban and Taynuilt are essential in assisting HGV’s to pass through the highest point of the masonry arch to reduce risk of accidental collision.

The new road markings installed at Achnacloich are in accordance with current standards and are appropriate for a bridge of this type. It had been identified that historically there had been minor collisions with the bridge structure as the previous road markings encouraged larger vehicles towards the edge of the road where the clearance is reduced. The new road markings will help guide HGV drivers through the area without impacting the structure.

In advance of the bridge there are ‘High Vehs’ road markings with an arrow to encourage HGV drivers to move towards the centre of the bridge. There is no requirement for other roads users such as private cars or smaller vehicles to travel through the bridge in the centre of the road.

New fixed warning signs have been installed to inform roads users of the height restrictions and road marking layout. New electronic vehicle activated signs have also been installed to warn of motorists approaching the bridge from the opposite direction.

Teams will continue to monitor the performance and effectiveness of the markings as well as carry out further assessments to review if additional measures may be required to help inform road users of the newly installed layout.

Eddie Ross, BEAR Scotland’s North West Representative said: “The new road markings installed at this location on the A85 at Achnacloich Railway Bridge are crucial to ensure that HGV’s avoid striking the structure which has been an historic problem in the area.

“We understand the concerns raised by the local community however the new road markings follow all relevant Traffic Signs Manual Advice and are appropriate for this type of bridge. The new road markings include ‘High Vehs’ text with an arrow pointing to the middle of the road in advance of the bridge. We would advise only HGV’s follow the new road marking layout as there is no requirement for other road users to travel through the bridge in the centre of the road.

“We have also installed new signs to warn motorists of the restrictions at the bridge as well as electronic vehicle activated signs which will flash when motorists are approaching from either side of the structure. We are also reviewing the provision of temporary road signs on the approaches to the bridge to provide further information on the new layout to road users.

“Our teams will continue to monitor the new layout to determine if further measures are required to help inform road users about the new road marking layout.”

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