A new phase of work has begun to install around 5 miles of new water main along the Great Glen Way, between Fort Augustus and Glenmoriston, as part of a £21 million investment in the area's water supply. The work is being carried out on Scottish Water's behalf by its alliance partner, Efficient Service Delivery (ESD).

Since work began in December, around 2 miles of water main has already been laid. The second phase of planned closures affecting the normal route of the Great Glen Way is now beginning, with signposted alternatives in place and a shuttle vehicle operating between Allt na Criche and Fort Augustus.

The new water main is a key part of a major project to provide a single, improved water supply to around 1250 Scottish Water customers in Fort Augustus and Glenmoriston, as well as catering to significant seasonal demand in the area from tourism.

The second phase of work on the Great Glen Way will involve closure of the normal route between Allt na Criche and Fort Augustus for around 6 weeks. A higher alternative route will be signposted using forestry tracks and part of the Old Military Road, which adds just over 4 miles to the route. Over this period, a shuttle vehicle will also operate every day from 8:30am until 4:30pm between the Allt na Criche car park and Fort Augustus village hall car park.

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As during the earlier phase of work, the lower route of the Great Glen Way will also remain closed between Allt na Criche and Invermoriston with a signposted diversion via the established higher route.

ESD's Project Manager Kelton Bennett said: "Our team on site is continuing to work to install the section of water main that follows the Great Glen Way efficiently and safely, so that the route can be returned to normal as quickly as possible. 

"We have been encountering some challenging, rocky ground conditions so we are also deploying a specialised trenching machine to speed up progress.

"So far, the signposted diversions have been working smoothly over a period where user numbers on the Great Glen Way are relatively low. During the phase of work ahead, we are also providing a shuttle vehicle between Allt na Criche and Fort Augustus for anyone who does not wish to take the longer alternative route."

Scottish Water Corporate Affairs Manager Gavin Steel added: "The investment that we are making will bring lasting benefits to the local area and its economy. We recognise that it also involves some short term disruption, particularly to the Great Glen Way. 

"The phase of work now beginning involves a longer and more challenging alternative route. Following engagement with the local community and with Highland Council last year, we are providing a shuttle vehicle as an alternative option to ensure that local residents and visitors can continue to enjoy the Great Glen Way safely. We would encourage people either to follow the signposted alternative route or to make use of the shuttle vehicle, as there is no footpath on this section of the A82.

"We will continue to work with local residents and businesses as work progresses to keep them informed and listen to any feedback on the arrangements."