The works to replace the retaining wall supporting the A835 trunk road at Loch Garve, known locally as ‘Check Rail Corner’, are steadily progressing. Preparatory activities were completed earlier in the year.
BEAR Scotland has started works to install a substantial 108-metre-long concrete beam beneath the carriageway. This new structure will be anchored securely into the underlying rock using steel rods drilled deep below the road surface.
Once the main structural elements are in place, a new safety barrier will be fitted along the top of the concrete, ensuring that the upgraded system provides a robust and reliable service life of around 120 years.
The existing wall at this location suffered significant damage after being struck by a vehicle. To maintain safety for all road users, temporary barriers and temporary traffic signals have been in operation since the incident, allowing the route to remain open while a permanent solution was developed.
The site presents a number of engineering and logistical challenges. The retaining wall supports the A835 directly above the Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh railway line, meaning any intervention must protect both road and rail operations. Designing a replacement structure required a detailed and complex process to ensure the new wall could be constructed safely within the tight constraints of the location, all while keeping both transport routes open throughout the works.
Preparatory works, such as vegetation clearance, ground investigation drilling and the diversion of telecommunications cables, took place throughout early 2026. With these works now complete, the project has been able to move on to the next phase of construction.
At the beginning of April 2026, traffic management was extended to 300m to allow for the removal of the damaged wall and the installation of the new long-term solution. Works were paused in July 2026 to allow for further remedial works. Works restarted in September 2026, and traffic management will remain in place until March 2027.
BEAR Scotland remains committed to delivering the project with a strong focus on safety, efficiency, and community impact, working to reduce inconvenience for residents, businesses, and all who rely on the A835. We thank the local community for their patience during the planning and construction of this complex project.
Works start on Monday 26 January 2026 Single lane closure with two-way traffic lights in place until November 2026 BEAR Scotland, with a significant investment of approximately £2.8 million from Transport Scotland, are set to replace the retaining wall and install new safety barriers on the A835 at Loch
Works continue from Monday 6 April Single lane closure with two-way traffic lights in place until November 2026 BEAR Scotland, on behalf of Transport Scotland, are set to replace the retaining wall and install new safety barriers on the A835 at Loch Garve. The site is situated a mile south
10-minute overnight closure to repair a pothole BEAR Scotland, on behalf of Transport Scotland, are currently undertaking works to replace the retaining wall and install new safety barriers on the A835 at Loch Garve, a mile south of Garve. Due to damage to the existing retaining wall and safety barriers,
Update on 18 September 2026: Following the recent severe weather, site inspections have identified some additional measures that would provide further long-term benefits to the project. We are working closely with Network Rail to incorporate these measures into our works and advise that construction operations will not recommence on 19
Winter Portal 
Planned Works 
Report a Defect