BEAR Scotland welcomed the Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Fiona Hyslop MSP, on a visit to the A82 Grotaig site, on the North West trunk road network today.

The Cabinet Secretary was given a first-hand look at the complex rock slope stabilisation works at Grotaig on the A82 where, BEAR Scotland are working closely with Forest and Land Scotland to address geotechnical hazards as part of a rolling programme of works.  Earlier this summer, over 11,000m² of rock netting was installed to mitigate against potential rock falls.

BEAR Scotland are conducting further investigations on the rock slopes to inform future mitigation measures that will help protect the A82 truck road and improve resilience of the network.

Commenting on the visit, Cabinet Secretary for Transport Fiona Hyslop said: “We know climate change is having a greater impact on our transport networks in Scotland with warmer, wetter weather affecting ground conditions, and it’s vital we ensure our trunk roads remain safe, resilient and adapted to deal with these challenges.

“This joint project between BEAR Scotland and Forest & Land Scotland is an excellent example of that work, stabilising the slope at a key point of the A82 and ensuring we do all we can to keep the road safe and operating freely.

“Our trunk road network is a vital asset and that is why the Scottish Government is investing £714 million this budgetary year to ensure it continues to provide important connectivity for people and businesses across the country.”

Euan Scott, BEAR Scotland’s North West Unit Representative, added: “We were delighted to welcome the Cabinet Secretary and share the progress being made across this important site.

“Our teams are committed to delivering long-term improvements to infrastructure that serves road users, local communities and visitors to the North West of Scotland.”

The project forms part of BEAR Scotland’s ongoing maintenance programme on behalf of Transport Scotland, ensuring the trunk road network remains safe and resilient.