MSPs are calling for a forestry road to be upgraded and opened up as a back-up to prevent massive diversions when bad weather forces the “lifeline” A83 Rest and Be Thankful to close.
The infamous road has been plagued by landslips and long-lasting road closures, with local campaigners calling on the Scottish Government to take urgent action on a “catastrophe waiting to happen”.
Both Donald Cameron MSP and Jackie Baillie MSP called for the upgrades during a debate on the matter in Holyrood.
‘It must be treated as an emergency’
Mr Cameron said: “This interim solution is needed if the weather is bad.
“A report on upgrading the forestry road says this could be done in 10-12 weeks and it is clear to be as winter approaches something has to be done sooner rather than later.
“It must be treated as an emergency.”
The Highlands and Islands MSP adds 100,000 tonnes of debris is currently sitting above the A83, which is “very threatening” for locals who rely on the route.
Transport Secretary Graeme Dey is now offering to arrange for MSPs to visit the forestry road, but warns engineers say this will be the “biggest engineering challenge” they will face.
He added Transport Scotland will also provide an update on their plans for the route at the next meeting of the A83 taskforce.