Located at the northernmost point on the A9, Scrabster Braes span approximately 700 metres of road leading towards Scrabster Harbour. The steep slopes in this area are prone to movement, having experienced several landslides over a number of years, and therefore require careful management to ensure this vital route remains open.
Given the elevation and steep profile of the area, without treatment, it’s likely that landslide events will continue to occur and disrupt this key corner of the trunk road network. BEAR Scotland understands the impact of road restrictions on this section of the A9 and, with an investment from Transport Scotland, have completed short-term measures and are developing further medium and longer-term solutions to maintain safe and resilient access to the harbour.
Continue reading for more information. Should you have any specific concerns or require further information, please contact NWconsultation@bearscotland.co.uk.
Scrabster Braes has experienced repeated landslide events over the years, impacting the A9 trunk road and nearby harbour operations. Listed below are the most recent events:
The first short‑term repair phase was completed in April 2025, stabilising the hillside in the immediate area of the December 2024 landslide. Techmat, mesh, and soil nails were installed to protect exposed areas and encourage vegetation growth, while the roadside fence and stone wall were reinstated to restore the area and protect the trunk road.
Landslides affecting this vital section of the A9 have a damaging impact on trade and transportation in the north of Scotland, therefore we are taking a pro-active approach to protecting the trunk road and maintaining safe and resilient access to the harbour.
Medium and longer-term solutions are in progress to address wider issues across the hillside and improve the stability of the braes.
BEAR is progressing drainage improvements above the slope, which will divert water away from the slope to avoid it become saturated which leads to landslides.
This includes a storage basin at the top of the slope which collects rainwater then allows the volume of water to be released at a slower, steady pace, helping to alleviate drainage issues.
While an outline drainage design has been developed, additional ground investigation works are required to better understand existing ground conditions and inform the final plan.
A contract for the ground investigations has now been awarded with initial works to identify underground services scheduled to commence at the start of September 2026. Further investigations to determine the makeup of the ground will then follow and are expected to continue for approximately three weeks.
To support the design of a long-term solution, a geophysical survey of the slope is currently planned for late Autumn 2026 and are expected to last approximately three weeks. This non-intrusive survey technique will provide information on the depth and make up of the slopes, including bedrock levels.
The survey data will allow the design team to optimise the required soil nail lengths, resulting in a more robust and cost-effective design.
Temporary traffic signals will be required during these works.
The medium-term solution comprises the installation of a debris flow barrier approximately 70 metres in length at the base of the slope adjacent to the harbour.
Construction is currently anticipated to commence in Winter 2026/2027 and is expected to continue for approximately 12 weeks.
Temporary traffic signals will be required on the A9 throughout the construction period to ensure the safety of both road users and the workforce.
As part of this project, BEAR are planning to undertake significant repair of the roadside wall, in a similar drystane style.
We are currently working with a local dyker and other specialist contractors to undertake the replacement in a series of sections, around the other proposed slope works and whilst maintaining access to the harbour.
Timescales will be shared when available.
Our longer-term solution will focus on stabilisation of the slope through the installation of soil nails.
Due to the scale of the project, the works will be delivered in phases over several years, with priority given to the areas identified as presenting the greatest risk.
A phased approach will help minimise prolonged disruption to road users and accommodate harbour operations.
Design development is progressing well with construction potentially commencing in late 2027.
Temporary traffic lights will be required on the A9 leading to the harbour during construction, however we are not intending to have any road closures and shall work with the harbour master and others, to plan our works around busy periods and activities, so to keep any disruption to a minimum.
More information on this will be released as the preparatory work progresses.
BEAR are also proposing selective planting of native species of tree and shrubs on the slopes to further protect the area. We will consult and collaborate extensively with landowners, local groups and landscape architects to ensure planting is in accordance with the natural environmental of the area, maximising the biodiversity benefits of our project.
Updated 24 March 2025: The end date for landslide repairs on the A9 Scrabster slopes has now been confirmed as Friday 25 April. Please see added date below in red. Works start Tuesday 25 March until Friday 25 April BEAR Scotland, on behalf of Transport Scotland, is set
Within a few miles of the most northerly point of the UK mainland, Scrabster Braes on the A9 is a vital route within the North West trunk road network. It gives access to numerous local businesses, the vital RNLI lifeboat station, and the ferry port at Scrabster Harbour that links
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