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 September. A new start date will be confirmed as soon as possible.

• Single-lane closure with two-way traffic lights in place until March 2027

BEAR Scotland, on behalf of Transport Scotland, are replacing the retaining wall and installing new safety barriers on the A835 at Loch Garve. The site is situated a mile south of Garve.

The existing retaining wall at the site was damaged by a vehicle and needs to be repaired to ensure the road continues to operate safely. Since the incident, temporary safety barriers and temporary traffic signals have been in place to protect road users.

Works to replace the retaining wall started in April 2026, however, works were paused following a storm in July 2026 due to the need for additional remedial measures on the slope between a railway and the road before construction works can continue. We are working with Network Rail to resolve these remedial measures.

Due to this delay and the complexity of the works, the project is currently predicted to continue until March 2027; this will be subject to ongoing review, accounting for weather and possible unforeseen conditions.

Access for emergency services and scheduled bus services will be maintained for the full duration of the works.

Richard Cook, BEAR Scotland’s North West Bridges Manager, said: “These retaining wall replacement works on the A835 at Loch Garve will restore structural stability, ensuring the long-term safety and integrity of the adjacent trunk road and railway line.

“Designing a new wall solution has been a complex process. Our teams have had to account for keeping the road and railway open, working around existing utility cables, and managing limited space from the steep slopes above and below the A835, all of which make construction particularly challenging.

“We’re working in conjunction with Network Rail and Openreach, with safety as our top priority. We thank the local community and road users for their ongoing patience while we complete the improvements.”

Real-time journey information is available from Traffic Scotland on www.traffic.gov.scot and on X @trafficscotland.