Scotland
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Works on the Pulpit Rock section of the A82 took a major step forward this week.
Transport Minister Stewart Stevenson announced that Transport Scotland had published draft road orders for work on the A82 at Pulpit Rock to finally remove the traffic signals and upgrade the section of road to re-introduce free flow of traffic.
The Transport Minister made clear that this work coupled with the recent opening of Stuckindroin Bridge and the forthcoming maintenance work between Tarbet and Crianlarich to resurface the carriageway and carry out other road safety improvements was tangible proof of the Government’s continuing commitment to upgrade the A82.
Transport Minister Stewart Stevenson said:“The A82 is an economic and social lifeline for the communities and businesses of the western Highlands and Islands, which cuts through some of the most challenging terrain in the world.
“Since 2007 the Scottish Government has completed, or is in the process of delivering, £32 million of improvements on the road. I am delighted that we are now able to publish the draft orders for the important works at Pulpit Rock, a section of road that has frustrated motorists for over 30 years.
“These works will require the road to be closed for up to 14 weeks, a reminder that the road is wedged between Loch Lomond and the steeply sloping hillside and any works on it will provide real engineering challenges.
“Although there are no quick fixes on this challenging road, we continue to carry out improvements on the A82. The Pulpit Rock works, bridge works and ongoing maintenance schemes show that this road continues to be a priority for this Government.”
The A82 is the main road link from Glasgow and the Central Belt to Fort William, the Highlands and the Western Isles. It is an important part of the Scottish Trunk Road Network and efficient operation of the road is essential for access to the Highlands and Islands.
A public exhibition of the Pulpit Rock Improvement scheme proposals will be held at Ardlui Hotel, Ardlui, Loch Lomond on Thursday 30th September 2010 from 12:00pm until 8:00pm.
(GK)
