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 the mainland to the Northern Isles.

The steep slopes leading down to the harbour are prone to movement and have experienced several landslides. The most recent event on 31 December 2024 brought material down onto the trunk road and damaged part of the roadside retaining wall.

BEAR Scotland understands the impact of road closures on this section of the A9 and, on behalf of Transport Scotland, measures are being developed to maintain safe access in and out of the harbour area.

Initial repair works were completed in April 2025, and medium- and long-term solutions are being progressed to address wider issues across the hillside, encompassing mitigation measures and hillside stability improvements on the braes,  that rise approximately 20m above road level.

Using knowledge gained as part of BEAR Scotland’s ongoing management of the Rest and Be Thankful on the A83, the medium-term solution will involve installing debris catch fences along the section of the slope closest to the harbour. Drainage improvements above and below the slope are also being considered, allowing the volume of water from heavy rain or snow melt to be released at a steady pace.

The long-term solution will give consideration to  the planting of wind- and salt-hardy native species, in keeping with the natural environment of the area, on the slopes to provide further resilience. This will be done in consultation with the landowner, local groups and in collaboration with our landscape architect.

Recognising that the location requires careful management, Transport Scotland and BEAR Scotland will continue to work closely with local stakeholders to ensure that the A9 remains open to Scrabster Harbour.