BEAR Scotland welcomed the Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Fiona Hyslop MSP, on a visit to several key sites across the North West and South East trunk road networks this summer.

The visits showcased the improvements being made to some of Scotland’s most important transport routes, including rock slope repairs on the A828 at Ledaig and on the A82 at Grotaig, the resurfacing of the A82 at Nevis Roundabout in Fort William and the recent replacement of the southern piled viaduct on Kincardine Bridge.

On the A828 at Ledaig, the Cabinet Secretary was given a first-hand look at the progress being made with the complex rock slope stabilisation works, which includes vegetation and tree clearance, controlled removal of loose rock, localised rock reinforcement, and the installation of rockfall drapery netting and face anchored support mesh.

On the A82, the Cabinet Secretary viewed the Grotaig rockslope 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.

These improvements form part of an ongoing package of measures designed to increase resilience and protect the trunk road network from potential rockfall events.

The visit to Nevis Roundabout highlighted improvements being delivered to enhance traffic flow and road quality in a busy part of the trunk road network, used extensively by local residents and tourists alike.

Alongside Balfour Beatty, we were also pleased to welcome the Cabinet Secretary to Kincardine Bridge where the project to replace the southern piled viaduct was recently completed on time and on budget, preserving the heritage of the Category A listed bridge.

Commenting on the visits, Fiona Hyslop MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Transport, said: “It’s vital we ensure our trunk roads remain safe, resilient and adapted to deal with challenges.

“These projects being carried out by BEAR Scotland are excellent examples of that work.

“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 these important sites.

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

All projects form part of BEAR Scotland’s ongoing maintenance programme on behalf of Transport Scotland, ensuring the trunk road network remains safe and resilient.