Transport Scotland has just announced that it intends to award a £9.2 million contract to McLaughlin & Harvey Ltd in respect of the overdue address to A83 Pulpit Rock bottleneck.
The press release says:
‘Subject to the mandatory standstill period, work is expected to start in the spring and last for around 12 months.
‘The project is set in a challenging rural landscape and will see almost half a kilometre of new road, including a new viaduct running parallel to the shoreline, built. The road will also be widened to allow vehicles to pass more easily. This will bring to an end over 30 years need for traffic lights at this location.’
Transport Minister, Keith Brown says: ‘The A82 Pulpit Rock scheme sits within one of the most unique and scenic landscapes in Scotland that brings many visitors to Loch Lomond. We fully recognise delivery will not be without its engineering challenges.
‘Our commitment to improve the traffic flow at Pulpit Rock is unwavering and, on completion, this project will bring real benefits for businesses and communities in the Highlands and Islands, not least the haulage industry. This is why I am pleased the announcement our preferred contractor shows, at long last, Pulpit Rock will have a road befitting its setting and importance.
‘Throughout the procurement process emphasis has been placed on minimising the impact on communities and businesses. I have tasked Transport Scotland to ensure this continues to remain a key focus throughout construction.’
The operational information in the press release is as follows:
‘The construction of the new viaduct and the cutting of the rock on the landward side of the road will require the A82 to be closed in each direction for a period of up to 14 weeks between 1st October 2013 and 6th January 2014.
‘Suitable advance warning of any other short term closures required as part of the works will be provided to allow road users and businesses to plan ahead.
‘We will work with the contractor to ensure that all closures are kept to the minimum necessary to carry out the works safely and efficiently.’
Note: Information on the Pulpit Rock improvements as well as other work planned for the A82 over the coming months is at the Transport Scotland website here.
