BEAR Scotland has reported progress on bridge and retaining wall projects across the North West trunk road network during the quarter to September 2026, as part of investment intended to protect transport links and improve infrastructure resilience.

In July, major refurbishment was completed on two retaining walls beside the A9 near Drumochter. Crews dismantled sections of deteriorating masonry, repaired the reinforced concrete beneath where necessary and rebuilt the stone facing. The work restored the walls' structural integrity and appearance while extending their service life.

At the Tummel Wall Replacement project, 122 of 140 main piles had been installed by the end of September. The new steel piled retaining wall is designed to offer greater protection against scour and extreme weather. Once finished, it will have a design life of 120 years.

-- Advertisement --

Work also began in the summer to replace the ageing Allt an Deabhtaich masonry structure on the A85 with a soil-nailed retaining wall. Initial activity included setting up the site, clearing vegetation, installing protective slope netting and taking measures to protect local bats. During September, test anchors were installed and verified, while drilling for permanent anchors and preparations for the new sprayed concrete facing were completed.

Restoration continued at the historic sluice gates at The Mound on the A9. The project involves replacing old timber gates and repairing surrounding stonework. The first replacement gate was installed by the end of September. The work is intended to preserve the structure, improve water management and protect nearby transport infrastructure.

At Kessock Bridge, a tower modification project was completed, improving access for inspection and maintenance teams. New wind monitoring equipment was also installed to provide more accurate information for bridge operations and traffic management. A separate project began to repair and monitor the bridge's tuned mass dampers, which help control movement in high winds.

BEAR Scotland said the projects would support the resilience and longevity of the North West trunk road network, from protecting walls against severe weather to maintaining historic structures and improving access for future maintenance.