Keith Brown has announced the go-ahead for a detailed investigation into mitigation works on a notorious landslip site on the A83.

The Transport Minister said the investigation will look at look at potential contingency measures and solutions following a landslip last month at the Rest and Be Thankful and safety concerns along the route.

Mr Brown said: "We have all seen again in recent months the enormous impact severe weather can have on our transport network – no more so in recent months than at the Rest and Be Thankful on the A83.

"Indeed I am conscious of the impact on local communities following the spate of road closures which were forced on us by the weather.

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"That is why I have commissioned this investigation which will be taken forward by a team of engineering specialists. The team will look closely what more can be done in managing the effects of landslips at the Rest. In particular, it will look at alternative access routes to mid Argyll including emergency access, potential road realignments away from the hillside.

'The investigation will also look into removing traffic pinch points, and pedestrian safety in villages along the route.

"The Scottish Government is determined to do everything it can to address the challenges on the vital road and is keenly aware of the ongoing concern from local communities of the impact of road closures. As we press ahead in tackling the impact of landslips, this investigation will inform our programme of work by identifying new potential ways to minimise their effect on the local communities and road users in the area."

The investigation, the cost of which will be around £100,000 is expected to be completed in the summer.

Transport Scotland engineers will also be attending local events in the coming weeks to explain in more detail the cause of landslips and actions being taken in response to severe weather events.

(GK)