Appendix I: All responses (verbatim)

This appendix features copies of all the feedback received during the feedback period and the associated responses provided.

A83RABT 001

1) I think doing something more in line with methods used in the alps is a good idea. I would say it would be a good idea to make sure that we are conforming to standards in country’s which use this system a lot. As if we are just experimenting with our own take on the solution that seems stupid, we are well past trial and effort.

2) I didn’t read this very much I think the jist of it was stuff to do with the old military road, [Redacted] literally everyone I knew thought we should be making use of the road that was right there, yeah it’s not ideal, but it’s loads better than the alternative detour.

3) I think the way the "tunnel" works is fine, it’s a shame that outcrop at the top will be taken out, I would have liked to have seen that left. I’m not going to list the top 3 things. A solution that works, there that’s 1 thing if we get that right I don’t care about the other stuff.

4) Frankly I have no thoughts on this the rest and be thankful is a to b route for me not a tourist destination. Its fine it is and I’m happy someone is thinking about it, but I honestly have nothing to offer on it.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The Scottish Government is committed to an infrastructure solution to address landslip risks at the A83 Rest and Be Thankful and shares the urgency communities and businesses place on maintaining and improving connectivity of this vital route.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

Work is being undertaken in accordance with the DMRB which is used to develop and assess road projects. This is considered standard good practice and is used throughout the UK. The DMRB Stage 2 Options Assessment work considered a range of environmental, engineering, traffic and economic factors. It also considered the performance against the national and regional objectives and disruption to road users during construction, more information can be found in the DMRB Stage 2 Report.

Further information on why the Debris Flow Shelter (DFS) and catch pit has been identified as the preferred route for the permanent, Long-Term Solution (LTS) can be found in the DMRB Stage 2 Report.

With respect to the design standards used to develop the proposed LTS scheme, it is recognised that there are no specific UK standards that define the design requirements for a DFS or similar type of shelter. Furthermore, it is noted that the DFS is not a tunnel, and as such it would not be appropriate to follow the DMRB tunnel standard as this would result in an overly complex set of design solutions with interacting systems, inappropriate for the technically and complex challenges on the A83.

The proposed approach therefore is to apply international practices similar to those used in Europe rather than apply tunnel or other similar standards in their entirety.

In relation to your comments regarding making use of the current road, the improvements to the Old Military Road (OMR) as part of the Medium-Term Solution (MTS) will deliver a safe, proportionate and more resilient diversion route when the A83 is closed. The interventions will be in place prior to the construction of the LTS and will reduce disruption to road users during the construction of the DFS.

Once the MTS has been implemented, average journey times are anticipated to reduce by one third (approximately ten minutes). This journey time improvement on the existing OMR operation aims to provide improvements both in the medium-term and long-term construction of the proposed scheme.

Significant rock cutting is required for the construction of the proposed LTS which unfortunately includes the removal of the existing rock crop located to the north of the DFS. This is required to accommodate the realignment of the A83 carriageway which will improve forward visibility for drivers and overall safety of the road.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 002

Dear Sir or Madam,

Having viewed the virtual exhibition on the Transport for Scotland website and seen various articles in NCE etc. I want to express [Redacted] desire to get involved with helping in the design ahead of manufacture of the debris flow shelter. [Redacted] have an inhouse design team with good experience of providing solutions to challenging precast projects as well as vast experience in the supply of bridge beams.

We are known for the supply of low carbon, structurally intensive precast and have recently supplied all the precast elements to [Redacted], as well as the bridge beams on the [Redacted], bespoke precast on [Redacted] amongst other key infrastructure schemes. Project management and solving logistical challenges are key strengths.

Can you please advise who would be the best person for me to contact in order to progress things? The earlier we get involved the more savings we can usually provide.

Response

Thank you for your interest in the A83 Rest and Be Thankful scheme.

We understand that initial contact has been made with our Project Team and they will be back in touch in due course.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 003

Email 1: Here are my comments on the A83 Rest and Be Thankful Road Improvement Scheme as presented March 2024:

Medium Term Solution (sic)

Implicit in the description of the widening and straightening of the Old Military Road as a route for all through traffic during the potential 4 years of A83 road closure is that the OMR will not be dual track throughout its length and that there will be use of convoys or traffic signal control over lengths that are single track. Such traffic management is unacceptable, especially over such a long period (up to four years) and particularly in spring/summer/autumn when traffic flows are greatly increased by tourism.

There will be slow moving traffic queues in any event as HGVs rise up the steep inclines and negotiate the sharp bends at the western end of the OMR, and adding traffic control in the form of queued convoys or lights-controlled single-track sections of the OMR will increase frustration and introduce significant delays.

There is also the question of slow-moving cyclists. This route carries a significant number of touring cyclists in warmer months. Questions need to be asked as to whether this form of “sustainable” travel is compatible with the narrow lanes and with single-track sections of the OMR. Would cyclists need to be provided with free, compulsory, motorised, conveyance (e.g. a bus converted to accommodate cycles and seated cyclists) for the duration of deployment of the OMR as the through route? This issue needs addressing regardless of the question of any persistence of single-track sections with traffic control. Alternatively, would cyclists be banned from taking this route? and, if so, under what legal framework? what will be the reaction of cycling organisations to a ban? and would a ban be consistent with government policy of encouraging sustainable travel?

One upshot of queuing as a result of traffic management on the OMR is almost certain to be frustration and a tendency to try to compensate for ‘lost’ time to the east and west of Glen Croe, motorists taking risks whilst overtaking etc. It is probable that accident rates will increase on the A83. Particularly challenging will be getting emergency vehicles through the OMR to accidents located to the west of Rest and Be Thankful. This, in itself, should be taken into account, especially were there to be a persistence of single-track sections along the OMR.

It follows from all the issues raised above that it is imperative that the OMR is made dual track throughout its length.

Junction of the OMR and the B828 Glen Mohr Local Road

The traffic flow priorities at the junction of the OMR and the B828 do not reflect traffic flows, either now or as planned when the OMR becomes the main route in Glen Croe. The entrance to the OMR should be given priority, even under current conditions (because most traffic turning off the A83 intends to use the carpark), and certainly when the OMR is in use as the only route in Glen Croe.

In addition, thought should be given to increasing the radius of curvature at the junction of the OMR and B828 to assist HGVs turning from, or entering, the OMR to do so without excessive reduction of speed.

Car Park/OMR interaction at Rest and Be Thankful

The OMR requires a turning lane for traffic wishing to enter the car park and arriving from the east. Without this, there will likely be a (further) queue of west-bound traffic that has just experienced the frustration of convoys and of following slow-moving HGV through the hair-pins and up the steep gradients of the OMR as stationary vehicles intent of entering the viewing point await a gap in westbound traffic before turning right into the carpark. Incidental, but of practical importance, any traffic queued on the steep section of the OMR may find the hill-start very challenging.

Environment

I am very surprised that the Project Team declares that it is only “considering” woodland creation. Woodland should be seen as one of the long-term landscape measures mitigating mass movements on the slopes of Glen Croe, especially those on the south-facing slopes above both the planned debris flow shelter and the OMR. Experimental data shows that woodland interception and re-evaporation of rainfall is significant in reducing the amount of water reaching the soil where it risks inducing slope instability. For mature woodland, this reduction is 15-20% for broadleaf deciduous and as much as 40% for needle-lead evergreen species. It is, therefore, imperative that woodland is planted extensively and that sheep and deer are permanently excluded from the woodland; woodland planting should be prioritised and not just “considered".

In addition, because tree growth will take time, thought should be given to establishing a shrub understorey that quickly offers ground cover - again, with the primary intent of intercepting rainfall and ensuring a significant fraction is re-evaporated rather than entering the soil.

The Debris Flow Shelter - Structure

I presume that the “Debris Flow Shelter” is primarily an elevated access road to facilitate the movement of excavators and other plant into position to remove debris that has accumulated on the screens in the adjacent catch-pit and that the purpose of the “compressible fill” is to absorb the impact of boulders that jump the pit. Were this the case and were it thought that the non-Newtonian rheology of a debris flow would allow heavy, large clasts to impinge at speed on the top of the shelter, some thought needs to be given to the ability to repair the upstanding concrete. Perhaps some other means of edging the elevated trackway is required, at least at the location of the chutes that facilitate debris flows?

The Debris Flow Structure - Roadway

The Shelter carries two opposing lanes separated by double lines. There is no specified provision for cyclists, and motorised vehicles will be prohibited from passing cycles if, by giving the clearance specified in the Highway Code, they would have to cross the double lines. I suppose the verges might be used for cyclists, though (i) obstructions (signage, barriers etc) would need to be absent (ii) consideration will need to be given to the entrance and exit in each direction of travel. The ‘flythrough’ seems to indicate no continuation of the verges outside the shelter. Were cyclists to use the verges, thought needs to be given to extending these so that cyclist re-join the main carriageway where other vehicles are permitted to cross the road centre-line. But, this manoeuvre will, in any case, be hazardous and liable to be the cause of serious collision. An alternative would be to prohibit cycles from taking the shelter route and directing them to use the OMR as a safer and more pleasant, though challenging, route both east- and westwards.

Email 2: The url to the on-line exhibition leads nowhere. Please provide a working link.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

As the Long-Term Solution (LTS) is predominantly on the existing A83 road, there will be a requirement for temporary traffic management for road users during the full construction period, currently estimated to be three to four years.

This will include traffic light operation and potentially considerable periods of full closures of the A83 where the Old Military Road (OMR) will be required to be in operation extensively during the construction period.

As part of the assessment to develop a more resilient temporary diversion route through Glen Croe, three options were considered, including an option for two-way traffic (further information on the three options can be found on the A83 Story Map – Medium-Term Solution - Assessed Options).

Following the assessment of the three options, in December 2022, a proportionate programme of improvements to the OMR was announced as the preferred option for the MTS which will not only improve its safety and resilience as a diversion route, but also improve the operation by extending the length of two-way operation, reducing journey times. The two-way operation will cover the southern end of the OMR only, due to the topography and tight bends at the northern end this will remain single lane.

Full details of the assessment to support the selection of the preferred option for the MTS can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Further work is currently being undertaken as part of the DMRB Stage 3 Assessment which consists of a more detailed design of the preferred route. It will consider the potential construction sequencing, with a key area of focus to reduce the impact of potential disruption to road users during construction.

Provision for cyclists during the construction period will depend upon the appointed contractor’s approach to the operation of the OMR. However, the current arrangement in place when the OMR is used as the diversion route when the A83 needs to close due to the risk of landslide and debris flow events, involves cyclists being transported along the OMR by van.

In line with the Scottish Government’s vision to promote active travel in ‘A Long-Term Vision for Active Travel 2030’, which can be found at https://www.transport.gov.scot/media/33649/long-term-vison-for-active-travel-in-scotland-2030.pdf ‘, and the 'Cycling by Design' guidance document which can be found at Cycling by Design Update 2021 (transport.gov.scot), suitable provision for all road users, including cyclists, is a large part of our major trunk roads projects.

Cyclists will be able to travel through the Debris Flow Shelter (DFS) on the existing road similar to the rest of the A83 Trunk Road. There will be a walkway alongside the DFS for maintenance and evacuation purposes however, it will not be open to pedestrians or cyclists as there is no connecting cycle path or walkway currently on the A83.

We are developing the proposed scheme design to incorporate sustainable travel facilities including bus, walking, cycling, wheeling and horse-riding facilities, wherever possible. This includes preparation of a DMRB Walking, Cycling and Horse-Riding Assessment (WCHAR).

With regards to passing cyclists or slow-moving road users in the DFS, it is important to note that the Highway Code states that vehicles are allowed to cross a solid white line where there are stationary or slow-moving road users including cyclists, horse riders or maintenance vehicles travelling at 10mph or less, where it is safe to do so. This applies to cyclists travelling in the DFS and along the rest of the A83 Trunk Road. Additionally, the road within the DFS will be 9.3m wide, include two 3.65m lanes and 1m hardstrips with 2.5m wide verges. This road width is wider than the existing A83 and will aid the passing of slow-moving road users.

We are currently considering opportunities for an active travel link from the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint to the forestry tracks on the lower slope of Ben Donich, to the west of the OMR, as identified on the information boards displayed at the engagement events.

Furthermore, we are aware of the paths to the east of the A83 which accesses the Arrochar Alps, and the proposed scheme will aim to ensure no barriers are put in place which inhibit access to existing routes.

Environmental mitigation and sustainable travel facilities, including bus and active travel, are being developed as part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are considering in detail what procedures need to be in place within the DFS in the event of a breakdown, fire and the transportation of dangerous goods.

We are actively engaging with and consulting emergency services in order to better understand their response to such an event. This includes consideration of a response to a fire within the structure.

As part of the DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are continuing to develop proposals in line with the emerging design and in accordance with relevant design standards and legislation. This includes consideration of how to prevent and limit the consequences of an emergency incident. Other related aspects under ongoing assessment include both fire and smoke modelling work and a lighting assessment, to determine what daytime, night-time and emergency lighting is required within the structure.

The Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint at the northern end of Glen Croe is a key component of the proposed scheme.

Engagement with key stakeholders aims to ensure that the proposals for the car park meet different user group aspirations, wherever practicable.

Car park surveys were undertaken in November 2023, February 2024 and April 2024 resulting in the completion of 316 questionnaires to date. These surveys have assisted in understanding the existing usage of the car park, including the origin and destination of journeys, the primary purpose for journeys and those stopping at the car park as well as the different modes of transport. The surveys also captured comments on future aspirations for the car park. The Project Team will be undertaking further surveys and questionnaires during the summer to ensure we understand any changes in usage throughout the year. The outcomes of the surveys and questionnaires will inform the ongoing design development work.

The emerging car park design includes a revised connection from the car park to the B828 Glen Mhor local road and also includes access to an improved junction layout to and from the A83. The updated layout improves safety through a reduction in the number of junctions and conflicts between traffic (as well as improving visibility for road users) and improves the bus stop and bus turning facility (improving the gradient and integrating the bus stop within the car park).

Design development of the car park layout as well as the need to accommodate a temporary diversion route via the OMR is ongoing and will be finalised in due course.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are actively exploring options to deliver Natural Capital and Bio-diversity Net Gain benefits. These include consideration of woodland creation, improvements to watercourses and provision of active travel routes.

We have been engaging with key stakeholders and will be undertaking further investigation (including site surveys) to determine where benefits could be delivered. These benefits would aim to align with the Scottish Government’s aspirations as set out in the National Planning Framework 4 and the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park Partnership Plan.

We are also progressing a programme to establish native woodland on the hillside above the road to help reduce the risk of landslides in the area whilst also enhancing local biodiversity and habitat connectivity. The scheme required Transport Scotland to acquire the necessary land before working in partnership with Forestry and Land Scotland to plant native trees of local provenance on the steep hillside. Deer fencing was installed in 2021, and tree planting commenced in March 2022. The planting is now complete, some 250,000 trees have been planted, and longer-term monitoring and management operations are underway.

The six-meter-wide catch pit is proposed to run parallel to the Debris Flow Shelter (DFS) and the Debris Flow Protection Wall (DFW) located at the northern end of the DFS. The catch pit’s main function is to capture material from landslides and rockfall, mitigating direct impacts to the DFS and DFW structures.

Providing the catch pit parallel to the DFS and DFW also allows the landslip and rockfall material to be cleared following an event. The clear up operation will include the material being excavated by a construction plant (e.g. excavators and dumper trucks) situated on the roof of the DFS. A maintenance access track at the southern end of the structure provides access from the A83 to the roof of the DFS for maintenance operatives. This approach will allow traffic to continue running on the A83 during and after a landslide event.

We apologise for any issues with the URL for the virtual exhibition room, this issue was rectified as soon as it was identified.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 004

1) Having lived in Argyll, using this route for 70 years, a tunnel is the answer. As a frequent visitor to Faroe Islands, it can be done as it is there. The A83 is an ancient route, let's have a new one now. Campbeltown has no ferry, no trains and unreliable air travel. Our developing whiskey [rest of sentence unreadable from scan].

2) It worked at last huge rainfall, but areas on either side caused havoc with the same flooding pouring debris on road.

3) 1) People working + living in Argyll just want a safe, fast road. People living in Kintyre just want to go home, not look at landscape. 2) Native trees fenced off from deer + sheep would be good. Landowners fined if breaching this.

4) b) Toilets - paying if need be.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

Design work is being undertaken in accordance with the DMRB assessment process, which is used to develop and assess road projects. This is considered standard good practice and is used throughout the UK. The DMRB Stage 2 Options Assessment work considered a range of environmental, engineering, traffic and economic factors. It also considered the performance against the national and regional objectives and the disruption to road users during construction, more information can be found in the DMRB Stage 2 Report.

It considered a comparative assessment of principally five options which consisted of viaducts, tunnels and a Debris Flow Shelter (DFS). Following the conclusion of the comparative assessment, the DFS and adjacent catch pit were selected as the preferred option.

Information on why the DFS and catch pit, on the line of the existing A83, have been identified as the preferred route for the proposed scheme can be found in the DMRB Stage 2 Report.

The DFS, on the line of the existing A83, was taken forward as the preferred route option as it achieves the scheme objectives by improving the resilience and operational safety of the trunk road network. Additionally, it is the most favourable of all options across a broad range of environmental criteria, whilst having the greatest potential to be delivered quickly and providing the greatest opportunity to encourage sustainable travel.

We have been engaging with Argyll and Bute Council, Forestry and Land Scotland, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park as well as bus operators in relation to the possibility of various opportunities, including toilets at the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint. Consideration of such facilities are under review as part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment and will be finalised in due course.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme

A83RABT 005

I’ve just be viewing the engagement exhibition in the virtual room. Rather than waste your time by sending in a response detailing concerns about lack cycle provision, I thought I’d just email you direct as I’m sure there’s a short answer. I can’t see any reference to cyclists in any of the exhibition boards or the virtual flythrough. Is there an expectation that cyclists will share the road space with vehicular traffic (both during the MTS on the OMR, and on the A83 once the LTS is complete), or is cycle provision being provided separately? I’m aware that my [Redacted] have already raised this concern with you, and I believe there was an interim response simply stating that providing cycle infrastructure through the debris flow shelter would be too expensive to consider. So, I’m wondering if thinking has moved forward at all in terms of alternative solutions?

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

Cyclists will be able to travel through the Debris Flow Shelter (DFS) on the existing road similar to the rest of the A83 Trunk Road. There will be a walkway alongside the DFS for maintenance and evacuation purposes however it will not be open to pedestrians or cyclists as there is no connecting cycle path or walkway currently on the A83.

We are currently considering opportunities for an active travel link from the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint to the forestry tracks on the lower slopes of Ben Donich, to the west of the Old Military Road (OMR), as identified on the information boards displayed at the engagement events.

Environmental mitigation and sustainable travel facilities, including bus and active travel, are being developed as part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 006

1) Long term solution : Innovative and Groundbreaking: Would become a Visitor attraction in it's own right. However, it's unlikely to occur due to funding issues and political climate priorities. Securing funding for project of the scale would be unlikely. Suspect costs would spiral, would be another Holyrood / HS2 /Edinburgh tramway/ Calmacferry fiasco. Also the 30 years it took to upgrade the A82 at Pulpit rock which is still not complete. The ongoing costs of maintenance / Cleaning catch pits ETC.

2) Medium term solution : Likely project will only go this far. As good a solution as can be expected and likely be the solution in the end.

3) LTS landscape interaction: 1- Important route into Argyll, 2- Scenic route to travel, 3- Potential to become a visitor attraction.

4) Existing RaBTH carpark : Adequate at the moment . But could become congested due to increase in number of visitors. 4b - RabTH opportunities - Provide public Toilets and small visitors centre. Improve parking for tour coaches ETC.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

Funding from the Scottish Budget 2023-24 provided allocation to commence delivery of the medium-term improvements which started in a phased manner in December 2023, along with progressing the ongoing necessary preparatory work on the Long-Term Solution (LTS). For 2024-25, funding is included in the Budget published in December to continue to progress both the medium and long-term solutions.

Funding to progress the construction stage of the medium and long-term solutions to the landslip risks will be determined annually as part of the annual Scottish Budget setting exercises. However, this scheme is a priority for The Scottish Government, noting it is a key recommendation in the Strategic Transport Projects Review 2 and is included in the recently published Programme for Government 2024-25.

Information on why the Debris Flow Shelter (DFS) and catch pit, on the line of the existing A83, have been identified as the preferred route for the proposed scheme can be found in the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges Stage 2 Report (DMRB).

A six-metre-wide catch pit is proposed to run parallel to the DFS and the Debris Flow Protection Wall (DFW). The catch pit’s main function is to capture material from landslides and rockfall, mitigating direct impacts to the DFS and DFW.

Providing the catch pit parallel to the DFS and DFW also allows the landslip and rockfall material to be cleared up following a landslide event. The clear up operation will include the material being excavated by a construction plant (e.g. excavators and dumper trucks) situated on the roof of the DFS. A maintenance access track at the southern end of the DFS provides access to the roof for maintenance operatives. This approach thereby allows traffic to continue running on the A83 during and after a landslide event. Structural inspections of the DFS will be undertaken at prescribed periods to monitor its structural integrity following any landslide events.

A cost estimate for the proposed scheme was prepared as part of the DMRB Stage 2 Assessment. This process also took account of the operation and maintenance costs (over a 60-year period) of the DFS. It is noted that of all the options included in the DMRB Stage 2 Assessment, the proposed scheme had the lowest operational and maintenance costs.

The improvements to the Old Military Road as part of the medium-term solution will deliver a safe, proportionate and resilient diversion route when the A83 is closed. The interventions will be in place prior to the construction of the LTS and will reduce disruption to road users during the construction of the DFS.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are actively exploring options to deliver Natural Capital and Bio-diversity Net Gain benefits. This includes consideration of woodland creation, improvements to watercourses and provision of active travel routes.

We are also progressing a programme to proactively plant trees on the hillside to help reduce the risk of landslides in the area. Transport Scotland is working with Forestry and Land Scotland to reintroduce the required local provenance native vegetation on the hillside.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 007

I am unable to visit your exhibitions regarding the proposals for the A83 Rest and be Thankful. Is it possible to have either hard copy or email of the proposals? I am particularly interested in the constructions and engineering works having spent many years on civil engineering works in the Highlands and have had encounters with similar ground conditions on a number of occasions. My experience alerts me to the construction methodology that can have a serious impact on the short term and long term stability of the hill side, just one of the issues that comes to mind!

I look forward to hearing from you.

Response

Thank you for your interest in the A83 Rest and Be Thankful scheme.

We understand copies of the materials from the public engagement events were sent to you as requested.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

Work is being undertaken in accordance with the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) which is used to develop and assess road projects. This is considered standard good practice and is used throughout the UK. The DMRB Stage 2 Options Assessment work considered a range of environmental, engineering, traffic and economic factors. It also considered the performance against the national and regional objectives and distruption to road users during construction, more information can be found in the DMRB Stage 2 Report.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 008

1) LTS - Once again the cheapest option . The last time, after the [Redacted] repeat it was the same. The result has been 10 years and millions wasted. No progress has been made. The current proposal will result in another 8-10 years of delays and is again the cheapest option. A properly designed road on the other side of the glen would be much better and would obviate the delays and accidents caused by the resulting queues.

2) MTS - A waste of money and time.

3) - Very badly. The landscape has already been badly affected by the nets and pits. Building a well-designed road on the other side of the glen and removing the exisiting one would be much better.

4a) Basic . 4b) What happened to the scheme to have a visitors centre with the car park on top?

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

A number of options were considered as part of the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 2 Assessment, including an option on the western side of Glen Croe, referenced as the Green Option. However, the key reason to support the debris flow shelter (DFS) as the preferred route option is that it achieves the scheme objectives of improving resilience and operational safety of the trunk road network. In addition, it is the most favourable of all options across a broad range of environmental criteria, whilst having the greatest potential to be delivered quickly and providing the greatest opportunity to encourage sustainable travel.

Further information on why the DFS and catch pit have been identified as the preferred route for the Long-Term Solution (LTS) can be found in the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges Stage 2 Report (DMRB)..

The Medium-Term Solution (MTS) consists of improvements to the existing Old Military Road (OMR) through the Glen Croe corridor to make it a more resilient diversion route until the LTS is in place. These improvements will improve the resilience of the diversion route, reduce journey times, are the quickest to implement, are of relatively lower cost and would have the least impact overall across the range of criteria assessed of the medium-term options considered.

Full details of the assessment to support the selection of the preferred option for the MTS can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

We have been engaging with Argyll and Bute Council and Forestry and Land Scotland, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park as well as bus operators in relation to the possibility of various opportunities at the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint. Consideration of facilities are under review as part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment.

We are not aware of any current proposals in place for a visitor centre but as noted above consideration of facilities is under review.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 009

No feedback received only contact details.

Response

Thank you for the contact details you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 010

I attended your recent presentation at Lochgilphead, which asked for comments Well .... the first that I would say is that at long last you may have a solution which ... when it is eventually completed ... could ensure better resilience than we have experienced for quite some time. For which all users will be grateful.

However, while your handout dwells somewhat on plans to improve the top-end car park and tidy up the glen after all the machines finally have left, it casts no useful light on why the process of arriving here has been so protracted and expensive. The money which must have been spent over this period on traffic control alone might have built a useful length of new road. This is an important issue, because landslip hazards are only going to multiply, and Scotland can't afford repeat performances of this long-winded saga.

It is far from clear why the catchpit approach was persisted in for so long, despite its repeated failure to do much good. Possibly TS wanted to look determined, though the result has been that they have simply appeared obstinate.

Anyway .... good luck with the galleries. It isn't yet clear how debris will be removed from behind them, but maybe it will just be left until everything levels up. I also expect that the construction period will be protracted ...site access constraints will see to that ... so it's to be hoped that the OMR can cope. Meanwhile it has been fortunate that at the Rest a nearby diversionary route is at hand. In other cases that may not be so.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

As a consequence of the landslides in August and September 2020, the then Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Infrastructure and Connectivity Michael Matheson MSP asked Transport Scotland to commence work on the development of a long-term sustainable and resilient alternative to the A83 Rest and Be Thankful. The design development of the proposed scheme has been following the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) assessment process which is based on defined assessment stages. The typical timeline associated with each stage was set out in the engagement presentation material. Notwithstanding the durations noted, the scheme is moving forward at pace to conclude the DMRB Stage 3 Assessment.

This scheme is technically challenging, and the landscape is dynamic, so it is vital we understand the terrain we are working in, in order to develop a suitable solution of the correct standard in the correct place.

Following detailed development and assessment work, a Debris Flow Shelter (DFS) was announced on 2 June 2023 as the preferred option for the Long-Term Solution (LTS).

The key reasons to support the DFS as the preferred route option is that it achieves the scheme objectives of improving resilience and operational safety of the trunk road network. In addition to being the most favourable of all options across a broad range of environmental criteria, it also has the greatest potential to be delivered quickly and providing the greatest opportunity to encourage sustainable travel.

Providing the catch pit parallel to the structure also allows the landslip and rockfall material to be cleared up following an event. The clear up operation will include the material being excavated by a construction plant (e.g. excavators and dumper trucks) situated on the roof of the DFS. A maintenance access track at the southern end of the structure provides access to the roof for operatives. This approach should allow traffic to continue running on the A83 during and after a landslide event.

Further information on why the DFS and catch pit have been identified as the preferred route for the LTS can be found in the DMRB Stage 2 Report.

The improvements to the Old Military Road (OMR) as part of the Medium-Term Solution (MTS) will deliver a safe, proportionate and more resilient diversion route when the A83 is closed. The interventions will be in place prior to the construction of the LTS and reduce disruption to road users during the construction of the DFS.

Further work is currently being undertaken as part of the DMRB Stage 3 Assessment to consider the potential construction sequencing, with a key area of focus to reduce the impact of potential disruption to road users.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 011

I'm afraid that the said link, which I was invited to Click On, hasn't produced or enabled me to access the mentioned On-Line coverage.

Response

Thank you for your interest in the A83 Rest and Be Thankful scheme.

We apologise for any issues with the URL for the virtual exhibition room, this issue was rectified as soon as it was identified.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme

A83RABT 012

1) Hope it happens but doubt it will. Looks like a good solution.

2) Has to be

3) Needs to be robust/ reliable solution blend as much as possible (it does) regard for the beauty/ views.

4) No comment

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website

Please see below a response to your feedback.

As part of the ongoing Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment, we are aiming to mitigate both visual and landscape impacts wherever possible. This includes consideration of slanted or truss columns on the debris flow shelter and whether the roof of the structure can include some form of natural low-level planting or grass.

In addition, we are currently preparing an Environmental Impact Assessment Report which includes specific assessments relating to both visual and landscape impacts. This assessment will determine whether there are any significant impacts as a result of the proposed scheme, whilst also identifying specific mitigation measures relating to both the construction and operational phases.

We have been engaging with key stakeholders and will be undertaking further investigation (including site surveys) to determine where benefits could be delivered. These benefits would aim to align with the Scottish Government’s aspirations set out in the National Planning Framework 4 and Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park Partnership Plan.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 013

1) No issues. Provision for a dedicated cycle lane from top to bottom should be considered if for safety only.

2) As a representative for [Redacted]

we have [Redacted] infrastructure in the area which would require 24hr access maintainers.

3) This should finally give a more robust route in and out of Argyll.

4.a) Fantastic view point b) Some heritage info and facilities on the history past and present of the area and it's motorsport legacy of being a world famous hill climb.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

We are developing the proposed scheme design to incorporate sustainable travel facilities including bus, walking, cycling, wheeling and horse-riding facilities, wherever possible. This includes preparation of a Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Walking, Cycling and Horse-Riding Assessment (WCHAR).

Furthermore, we are aware of the paths to the east of the A83 which accesses the Arrochar Alps, and the scheme will aim to ensure no barriers are put in place which prohibit access to existing routes or indeed any of [Redacted] hydro catchment infrastructure. We will be in contact with [Redacted] to make arrangements for future access.

The WCHAR Report is currently being developed following the assessment process.

We have been engaging with Argyll and Bute Council, Forestry and Land Scotland, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park as well as bus operators in relation to the possibility of various opportunities at the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint. Consideration of facilities are under review as part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment and will be finalised in due course.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 014

1) To me, this is the most sensible solution, meaning it is likely to be completed!

2) Make sense.

3) 1) Important to 'blend' the drainage ponds (SUDS) into the landscape. 2) Provide a safety margin for cyclists in the shelter, it could become restrictive. 3)Don't make the area too "built up".

4) a) Seems ok at present, though I understand the bus issue.

b) See point 3 above.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

As part of the ongoing Design Manual of Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment, we are actively exploring options to deliver Natural Capital and Bio-diversity Net Gain benefits. This includes consideration of woodland creation, improvements to watercourses and provision of active travel routes.

We are also developing proposals to mitigate impacts on the water environment, including sustainable drainage proposals and we recognise the importance of integrating drainage works, including sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) into the surrounding landscape.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are aiming to mitigate both visual and landscape impacts wherever possible. This includes consideration of slanted or truss columns on the debris flow shelter (DFS) and whether the roof of the structure can include some form of natural low-level planting or grass and try and integrate it into the surrounding environment as much as possible.

Cyclists will be able to travel through the DFS on the existing road similar to the rest of the A83 Trunk Road. There will be a walkway alongside the DFS for maintenance and evacuation purposes however, it will not be open to pedestrians or cyclists as there is no connecting cycle path or walkway currently on the A83.

With regards to passing cyclists or slow-moving road users in the DFS, it is important to note that the Highway Code states that vehicles are allowed to cross a solid white line where there are stationary or slow-moving road users including cyclists, horse riders or maintenance vehicles travelling at 10mph or less, where it is safe to do so. This applies to cyclists travelling in the DFS and along the rest of the A83 Trunk Road. Additionally, the road within the DFS will be 9.3m wide, include two 3.65m lanes and 1m hardstrips with 2.5m wide verges. This road width is wider than the existing in the proposed scheme and will aid the passing of slow-moving road users.

We have been engaging with Argyll and Bute Council, Forestry and Land Scotland, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park as well as bus operators in relation to the possibility of various opportunities at the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint. Consideration of facilities are under review as part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment and will be finalised in due course.

The WCHAR Report is currently being developed following the assessment process.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 015

1) What about improvements for recreational cyclists? When the design is complete, could the OMR be used for that?

A cafe/ restaurant at the top of the rest or even a picnic shelter would be great, especially when the weather is wet.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

We are developing the design to incorporate sustainable travel facilities including bus, walking, cycling, wheeling and horse-riding facilities wherever possible. This includes preparation of a Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Walking, Cycling and Horse-Riding Assessment (WCHAR).

We are currently considering opportunities for an active travel link from the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint to the forestry tracks to the west of the Old Military Road (OMR).

Opportunities to utilise the OMR and other existing routes are being considered as part of this assessment.

We have been engaging with Argyll and Bute Council, Forestry, Land Scotland, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park and bus operators in relation to the possibility of various opportunities at the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint. Consideration of facilities are under review as part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment which identifies the advantages and disadvantages of environment, engineering, economic and traffic terms of the preferred option.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 016

1) Looks good. Presumably the debris management system and water control will try to allow for further climate deterioration as politicians prevaricate and obtuscate on the hard questions of trying to deal with climate change?

2) As the nature of large engineering projects usually leads to overruns on completion dates this MTS is going to have to be both effective and sustainable to avoid serious disruption.

3) 1) Effectiveness 2) Ability to cope with changing circumstances 3) Looking decent within the landscape.

4) a) Don't have any opinion. Frequently use the road but almost never the car park.

b) Little or no commercial space should be made available. The point is the view! One small refreshment point is enough.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

As part of the ongoing Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment, we are actively exploring options to deliver Natural Capital and Bio-diversity Net Gain benefits. This includes consideration of woodland creation, improvements to watercourses and provision of active travel routes.

The MTS, announced in December 2022, which is a proportionate programme of improvements to the OMR will not only improve its safety and resilience as a diversion route, but also improve the operation of the OMR by extending the length of two-way operation, reducing the journey times. The two-way operation will cover the southern end of the OMR only, due to the topography and tight bends at the northern end this will remain single lane.

We have been engaging with Argyll and Bute Council, Forestry and Land Scotland, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park as well as bus operators in relation to the possibility of various opportunities at the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint. Consideration of facilities are under review as part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment and will be finalised in due course.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 017

1) It's the way to go. I can't see any negatives. Some may object to a tunnel, but I think it is sufficiently 'open'.

2) Again, I see no 'negatives' here. Two-way system will be much appreciated.

3) No issues; All good. 1) Safety 2) Base of passage 3) No overly disharmonious constructions.

4) a) Layout/ turning space could be improved. No toilet facilities! b) Toilets!

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

The Medium-Term Solution (MTS), announced in December 2022, which is a proportionate programme of improvements to the Old Military Road (OMR) will not only improve its safety and resilience as a diversion route, but also improve the operation of the OMR by extending the length of two-way operation, reducing the journey times. The two-way operation will cover the southern end of the OMR only, due to the topography and tight bends at the northern end this will remain single lane.

The emerging car park design includes connecting the car park to the B828 Glen Mhor local road and also includes access to an improved junction layout to and from the A83. The updated layout improves safety through a reduction in the number of junctions and conflicts between traffic (as well as improving visibility for road users) and improves the bus stop and bus turning facility (improving the gradient and integrating the bus stop within the car park).

Design development of the car park layout as well as the need to accommodate a temporary diversion route via the OMR is ongoing and will be finalised in due course.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 018

1) Largely good. Timescale with respect to possible A82 upgrade? Minimize light pollution from 'tunnel' lights.

Separate cycle lane? Green roof.

2) Seems ok. - As short a time as possible!

3) Panorama from top of the road - minimal, tarmac/ infrastructure visible, Wildlife - eagles visible from road.

4) a) Adequate

b) Don't increase size much

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

The Scottish Government has been clear that construction work on the A82 Tarbet to Inverarnan scheme would not take place at the same time as improvements to the A83 at the Rest and be Thankful in order to avoid significant disruption for local residents and businesses. Subject to the successful completion of the statutory process, the programme for delivery of the A82 Tarbet to Inverarnan scheme will need to be considered carefully to avoid overlap with the work on the A83 at the Rest and Be Thankful.

As part of the ongoing Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment for the A83, we are undertaking a lighting assessment in order to better understand what daytime and night-time lighting is required within the structure. This takes account of the potential “strobe” effect and the change in light on both entry and exit from the structure. This work also takes account of the different column arrangements under consideration (e.g. vertical columns or slanted, truss columns).

We are also considering what materials can be used on the roof of the DFS.

The most important aspect of this decision will be to ensure that the roof includes compressible fill material (e.g. similar in composition to sand) in order to act as a cushion for the concrete structure during any potential landslide or boulder fall. The material on the roof also needs to be capable of supporting maintenance vehicles during the clear-up operation of material from the catch pit following a landslide event.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are aiming to mitigate both visual and landscape impacts wherever possible. This includes consideration of slanted or truss columns on the DFS and whether the roof of the structure can include some form of natural low-level planting or grass.

No decision has been made on the roof material and appearance and this will be confirmed in due course.

Once the MTS has been implemented, average journey times are anticipated to reduce by one third (approximately 10 minutes). This journey time improvement on the existing OMR operation aims to provide improvements both in the medium-term and long-term construction.

We have been engaging with Argyll and Bute Council, Forestry and Land Scotland, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park as well as bus operators in relation to the possibility of various opportunities at the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint. Consideration of facilities are under review as part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment and will be finalised in due course.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 019

1) Long term solution looks very good. Pity about the 8 years of interruption. Good presentation!

2) At least the single traffic length would be reduced!

3) 1) Please ensure it is not a tourist attraction other than from the car park at the top. 2) Green topping important

4) a) I never stop there b) A tearoom!

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

Further work is currently being undertaken as part of the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment to consider the potential construction sequencing, with a key area of focus to reduce the impact of potential disruption to road users.

As part of the ongoing DMRB, we are considering what materials can be used on the roof of the debris flow shelter.

We are aiming to mitigate both visual and landscape impacts wherever possible. This includes consideration of slanted or truss columns on the DFS and whether the roof of the structure can include some form of natural low-level planting or grass.

No decision has been made on the roof material and appearance and this will be confirmed in due course.

We have been engaging with Argyll and Bute Council, Forestry and Land Scotland, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park as well as bus operators in relation to the possibility of various opportunities at the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint. Consideration of facilities are under review as part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment and will be finalised in due course.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 020

1) Needed! Please try to provide cycling track to avoid cyclists being in packs - overtaking roadway under cover! Minimize light pollution

2) Looks difficult as it will impact travel for several years

3) Scenic view is clearly very important - especially from Rest + BT. So important to minimize visual impact of road cover.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the https://www.transport.gov.scot/projects/access-to-argyll-and-bute-a83/project-details/#64777

Please see below a response to your feedback.

As part of the ongoing Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment, we are undertaking a lighting assessment in order to better understand what daytime and night-time lighting is required within the structure. This takes account of the potential “strobe” effect and the change in light on both entry and exit from the structure. This work also takes account of the different column arrangements under consideration (e.g. vertical columns or slanted, truss columns).

Cyclists will be able to travel through the Debris Flow Shelter (DFS) on the existing road similar to the rest of the A83 Trunk Road. There will be a walkway alongside the DFS for maintenance and evacuation purposes however it will not be open to pedestrians or cyclists as there is no connecting cycle path or walkway currently on the A83.

The Medium-Term Solution (MTS), announced in December 2022, which is a proportionate programme of improvements to the OMR will not only improve its safety and resilience as a diversion route, but also improve the operation by extending the length of two-way operation, reducing the journey times. The two-way operation will cover the southern end of the OMR only, due to the topography and tight bends at the northern end this will remain single lane.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are aiming to mitigate both visual and landscape impacts wherever possible. This includes consideration of slanted or truss columns on the DFS and whether the roof of the structure can include some form of natural low-level planting or grass.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 021

1) Seems totally appropriate. Greening of the roof will help with visual impact. Need to keep as much natural visibility as possible. Is there any plan to give guided tours/unguided walking opportunities on the roof?

2) Improvements to the Old Military road could be used after A83 fully open and a dedicated cycle way to keep cyclists out of tunnel/covered area.

3) 1) The landscape and the engineering needed to create a safe route for travel should be obvious. 2) Hiding the debris flow shelter from the car park is only needed if the shelter is ugly. 3)There are plenty of 'unspoiled' views in Scotland. We should show how engineering can help solve problems.

4) a) Good place to stop when the weather is dry.

b) More information should be available, either in a visitor centre with toilets (probably seasonal) or more boards with roofed areas. Possibly replace tarmac surface with a greener alternative. Electric car charging points could be added. More cycle/ motorbike parking.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are considering what materials can be used on the roof of the Debris Flow Shelter (DFS).

The most important aspect of this decision will be to ensure that the roof includes compressible fill material (e.g. similar in composition to sand) in order to act as a ‘cushion’ for the concrete structure during any potential landslide or boulder fall. The material on the roof also needs to be capable of supporting maintenance vehicles during the clear-up operation of material from the catch pit following a landslide event.

In addition to the structural considerations, we are also considering whether the roof can include some form of natural low-level planting or grass in order to mitigate the landscape and visual impacts of the structure and try and integrate it into the surrounding environment as much as possible.

No decision has been made on the roof material and appearance and this will be confirmed in due course.

As the roof will be used as maintenance access there are no plans to introduce walking tours or similar on top of the shelter.

We are currently preparing an Environmental Impact Assessment Report which includes specific assessments relating to both visual and landscape impacts. This assessment will determine whether there are any significant impacts as a result of the proposed scheme, whilst also identifying specific mitigation measures relating to both the construction and operational phases.

Opportunities to utilise the Old Military Road (OMR) and other existing routes are being considered as part of this assessment.

We are currently considering opportunities for an active travel link from the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint to the forestry tracks on the lower slopes of Ben Donich, to the west of the OMR, as identified on the information boards displayed at the public engagement events.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 022

1) Probably the only solution - lived in Europe very used to avalanche tunnels anything that can be done to make it fit in with the landscape will be greatly appreciated - green roof etc.

2) Improvements to the road to cut back on the queues and closures will benefit visitors + residents on both sides.

3) Prevention of long queues - Ability to move from one side of Argyll + Bute to the other. An accessible stopping place at the top for views - toilets - visitors centre etc.

4) a) Fine - like the food truck - toilets would be good - parking for large groups of motorbikes in needed. Electric chargers for cars, motorbikes and electric bikes is also needed. b) Information boards on the geology, geography, natural environment, wildlife etc.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are considering what materials can be used on the roof of the Debris Flow Shelter (DFS).

No decision has been made on the roof material and appearance and this will be confirmed in due course.

The improvements to the Old Military Road (OMR) as part of the Medium-Term Solution (MTS) will deliver a safe, proportionate and more resilient diversion route when the A83 is closed. The interventions will be in place prior to the construction of the Long-Term Solution (LTS) and reduce disruption to road users during the construction of the DFS.

We have been engaging with Argyll and Bute Council, Forestry and Land Scotland, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park as well as bus operators in relation to the possibility of various opportunities, including toilets, at the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint. Consideration of such facilities are under review as part of the DMRB Stage 3 Assessment.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 023

1) Good plan, taking into account the challenge. Seems a good technical solution. I like the look of it. A walking and cycle path
alongside would be good, maybe essential.

2) Again needed.

3) It is a significant civil engineering project and will look like that - a contrast in the landscape.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are aiming to mitigate both visual and landscape impacts wherever possible. This includes consideration of slanted or truss columns on the debris flow shelter and whether the roof of the structure can include some form of natural low-level planting or grass.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 024

1) It appears to be least disruptive to the Glen Croe landscape retaining the car park and an acceptable connection with the B828.

2) Measures to mitigate delays via OMR are appreciated.

3) Important to preserve the beauty of Glen Croe. The proposed debris shelter is aesthetically pleasing.

4) a) Existing problems for linking locals bus with intercity services between Oban, Campbeltown and Glasgow. Bus Stop can be blocked by touring coaches.

b) Important to facilitate public transport by bus.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

The improvements to the Old Military Road (OMR) as part of the Medium-Term Solution (MTS) will deliver a safe, proportionate and more resilient diversion route when the A83 is closed. The interventions will be in place prior to the construction of the (LTS) and reduce disruption to road users during the construction of the Debris Flow Shelter (DFS).

We are also considering what materials can be used on the roof of the debris flow shelter.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are aiming to mitigate both visual and landscape impacts wherever possible. This includes consideration of slanted or truss columns on the debris flow shelter and whether the roof of the structure can include some form of natural low-level planting or grass.

No decision has been made on the roof material and appearance and this will be confirmed in due course.

We have been engaging with Argyll and Bute Council, Forestry and Land Scotland, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park as well as bus operators in relation to the possibility of various opportunities at the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint. Consideration of facilities are under review as part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment and will be finalised in due course.

Design development of the car park layout as well as the need to accommodate a temporary diversion route via the OMR is ongoing and will be confirmed in due course.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 025

1) Great idea. As a local, the route is important to me as I drive/ cycle [Redacted] 5 days per week.

2) For me the need is for as little disruption as possible is really important to reduce travel time + environmental impact.

3) - Active transport - I am a keen cyclist and would like to see mountain bike trails kept or added to along glen croe.

- As little disruption as possible for locals travelling to Lochgoilhead. - Keep layby open for hill access.

4) a) Great burger van - Local business important rest stop for vehicles. b) - Mountain bike trails - Better road surfaces - A winter grit container for locals to use on Glen Mhor road.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

The improvements to the Old Military Road (OMR) as part of the Medium-Term Solution (MTS) will deliver a safe, proportionate and more resilient diversion route when the A83 is closed. The interventions will be in place prior to the construction of the Long-Term Solution (LTS) and reduce disruption to road users during the construction of the Debris Flow Shelter (DFS).

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are aiming to mitigate both visual and landscape impacts wherever possible. This includes consideration of slanted or truss columns on the debris flow shelter and whether the roof of the structure can include some form of natural low-level planting or grass.

We are currently considering opportunities for an active travel link from the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint to the forestry tracks on the lower slopes of Ben Donich, to the west of the OMR, as identified on the information boards displayed at the engagement events.

We have been engaging with Argyll and Bute Council, Forestry and Land Scotland, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park as well as bus operators in relation to the possibility of various opportunities at the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint. Consideration of facilities are under review as part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment and will be finalised in due course.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 026

1) I would like a start and finish date as we have been talking for last 10 years + [Redacted].

2) Happy with the medium term solution but would like a time scale when only the OMR will be only route available to Argyll.

3) Fits with landscape as its a must. Looking for a start and finish date. Bus and emergency be able to access Lochgoilhead B828.

4) a) Improve entrance and exit with better site levels. This would help large vehicles and a one way system to and from the car park. b) Improve the bus stop + turning facility to make in a 12 month stop as at the moment only summer months as west coast say too dangerous over the winter [unintelligible]

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

The next step for the project which is the detailed design and assessment of the preferred option is progressing at pace and will conclude with the publication of draft Orders for comment, currently expected by the end of 2024. Progress following the publication of draft Orders will depend on the level and nature of any representations, including objections, to the published draft Orders.

As with all our infrastructure projects, construction of the Long-Term Solution (LTS) can only commence if it is approved under the relevant statutory authorisation process and thereafter a timetable for construction can be determined in line with available budgets. It is estimated that construction will take three to four years including an allowance for possible standdown time due to bad weather.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are aiming to mitigate both visual and landscape impacts wherever possible. This includes consideration of slanted or truss columns on the DFS and whether the roof of the structure can include some form of natural low-level planting or grass.

We have been engaging with Argyll and Bute Council, Forestry and Land Scotland, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park as well as bus operators in relation to the possibility of various opportunities at the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint. Consideration of facilities are under review as part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment and will be finalised in due course.

Design development of the car park layout as well as the need to accommodate a temporary diversion route via the OMR is ongoing and will be finalised in due course.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 027

1) Very good solution to long term problem.

2) Good ideas.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the https://www.transport.gov.scot/projects/access-to-argyll-and-bute-a83/project-details/#64777

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 028

1) It looks amazing, living here for 30 years the road has been at times a nightmare, Looking now for the new road.

2) Anything that helps the on going issues is for sure a bonus for the locals.

3) Looking at the plans, I am very happy with the proposed plans, it seems to fit in with landscape.

4) a) It is not great, specially when coaches are parked in the pull over space at the entrance to the road to the goil.

b) A proper view point, parking for cars, and coaches, some seating area for people.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are aiming to mitigate both visual and landscape impacts wherever possible. This includes consideration of slanted or truss columns on the Debris Flow Shelter (DFS) and whether the roof of the structure can include some form of natural low-level planting or grass.

We have been engaging with Argyll and Bute Council, Forestry and Land Scotland, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park as well as bus operators in relation to the possibility of various opportunities at the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint. Consideration of facilities are under review as part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment and will be finalised in due course.

Design development of the car park layout as well as the need to accommodate a temporary diversion route via the OMR is ongoing and will be confirmed in due course.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 029

1) During construction will Transport Scotland give consideration to the use of ferry from Campbeltown. Reassurance of how robust.

2) Would have preferred if forestry road could also have been considered to allow 2 way traffic.

3) It will be important for solution to be integrated with the landscape either by plants, paints etc.

4) a) Think there is scope for developing to attract people to stay longer.

b) Possible toilets at car park given cars and buses stopping.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

Consideration of alternative transport modes, including the utilisation of ferry services during the construction period, are being explored and we understand the concerns of businesses and communities in Argyll.

The forestry track option, or the Green Option as it’s referred to, which featured a two-way road was considered as part of the LTS and MTS assessment. However the key reasons to support the Debris Flow Shelter (DFS) as the preferred route option are that it achieves the scheme objectives of improving resilience and operational safety of the trunk road network. In addition to being the most favourable of all options across a broad range of environmental criteria, whilst having the greatest potential to be delivered quickly and providing the greatest opportunity to encourage sustainable travel.

Information on why the DFS and catch pit, on the line of the existing A83, have been identified as the preferred route for the proposed scheme can be found in the DMRB Stage 2 Report.

The Medium-Term Solution (MTS) consists of improvements to the existing Old Military Road (OMR) through the Glen Croe corridor to make it a more resilient diversion route until the Long-Term Solution (LTS) is in place. These improvements will improve the resilience of the diversion route, reduce journey times, are the quickest to implement, are of relatively lower cost and would have the least impact overall across the range of criteria assessed of the medium-term options considered.

Full details of the assessment to support the selection of the preferred option for the MTS can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are aiming to mitigate both visual and landscape impacts wherever possible. This includes consideration of slanted or truss columns on the DFS and whether the roof of the structure can include some form of natural low-level planting or grass.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 030

1) Agree with proposal though consider using walkway for cyclist.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

Cyclists will be able to travel through the Debris Flow Shelter (DFS) on the existing road similar to the rest of the A83 Trunk Road. There will be a walkway alongside the DFS for maintenance and evacuation purposes however it will not be open to pedestrians or cyclists as there is no connecting cycle path or walkway currently on the A83.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 031

1) This is a good solution. Get it done!

2) Work that needs to be done to keep route at present operational.

3) Not an area of outstanding beauty at present so more concrete and steel should have little impact. Local use of the road to get from A to B, not spending time looking at the views on that stretch of road.

4) a) Seems adequate

b) Consult on whether any business opportunities for seasonal cafe with toilets.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

The improvements to the Old Military Road (OMR) as part of the Medium-Term Solution (MTS) will deliver a safe, proportionate and more resilient diversion route when the A83 is closed. The interventions will be in place prior to the construction of the Long-Term Solution (LTS) and reduce disruption to road users during the construction of the Debris Flow Shelter (DFS).

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are aiming to mitigate both visual and landscape impacts wherever possible. This includes consideration of slanted or truss columns on the DFS and whether the roof of the structure can include some form of natural low-level planting or grass.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 032

1) Cynical it will happen for many years. It’s a political football brought out to be kicked around before elections then put back in box.

3) Very pretty pictures, environmental study worthless another delaying tactic

4) a) Very pretty b) Well I suppose visitor centre various information signs toilets with a huge charge to use!

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on theTransport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

The works associated with the Environmental Impact Assessment Report is a statutory requirement and forms a key element of the statutory authorisation process which is followed by all trunk road projects. This assessment will determine whether there are any significant impacts as a result of the proposed scheme, whilst also identifying specific mitigation measures relating to both the construction and operational phases.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 033

2) Tunnel Code, Fire precaution fro DG's specifically UN3065.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are considering in detail what procedures need to be in place within the Debris Flow Shelter in the event of a breakdown, fire and the transportation of dangerous goods.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 034

1) Hopefully it will work - I would have preferred a tunnel. Would have liked to have seen a cycle path to the side.

2) Again, hope it works.

3) Would like to see grass/ wild flower roof. Pillars painted green.

4) a) Ok, good views down the glen.

b) Few additional spaces - cycle racks

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

The key reasons to support the Debris Flow Shelter (DFS) as the preferred route option are that it achieves the scheme objectives of improving resilience and operational safety of the trunk road network. In addition to being the most favourable of all options across a broad range of environmental criteria, whilst having the greatest potential to be delivered quickly and providing the greatest opportunity to encourage sustainable travel.

Information on why the DFS and catch pit, on the line of the existing A83, have been identified as the preferred route for the proposed scheme can be found in the DMRB Stage 2 Report.

Cyclists will be able to travel through the DFS on the existing road similar to the rest of the A83 Trunk Road. There will be a walkway alongside the DFS for maintenance and evacuation purposes however it will not be open to pedestrians or cyclists as there is no connecting cycle path or walkway currently on the A83.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are considering what materials can be used on the roof of the DFS.

We are also currently preparing an Environmental Impact Assessment Report which includes specific assessments relating to both visual and landscape impacts. This assessment will determine whether there are any significant impacts as a result of the proposed scheme, whilst also identifying specific mitigation measures relating to both the construction and operational phases.

No decision has been made on the roof material and appearance and this will be confirmed in due course.

We have been engaging with Argyll and Bute Council, Forestry and Land Scotland, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park as well as bus operators in relation to the possibility of various opportunities at the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint. Consideration of facilities are under review as part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment and will be finalised in due course.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 035

3) Gov. must stump up and soon. Expensive to maintain. Simpler swiss rail style shute quicker, easier, less intrusive.

4) Rain run off can be a problem for erosion. Rain trough leading to stream.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

The next step for the project which is the detailed design and assessment of the preferred option is progressing at pace and will conclude with the publication of draft Orders for comment, currently expected by the end of the year. Progress following the publication of draft Orders will depend on the level and nature of any representations, including objections, to the published draft Orders.

As with all our infrastructure projects, construction of the long-term solution can only commence if it is approved under the relevant statutory authorisation process and thereafter a timetable for construction can be determined in line with available budgets.

Information on why the DFS and catch pit, on the line of the existing A83, have been identified as the preferred route for the proposed scheme can be found in the DMRB Stage 2 Report. Furthermore, please refer to Section 5.2 of the Stage 2 Report for details of how the options evolved to include catch pits, as opposed to allowing the material to flow over the roof.

Providing the catch pit parallel to the DFS and DFW also allows the landslip and rockfall material to be cleared up following an event. The clear up operation will include the material being excavated by a construction plant (e.g. excavators and dumper trucks) situated on the roof of the DFS. A maintenance access track at the southern end of the DFS provides access to the roof for maintenance operatives. This approach thereby allows traffic to continue running on the A83 during and after a landslide event. Structural inspections of the DFS will be undertaken at prescribed periods to monitor the structural integrity and following any landslide events.

We are also developing proposals to mitigate impacts on the water environment, including sustainable drainage proposals and recognise the importance of integrating drainage works, including Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) into the surrounding landscape.

We have been engaging with Argyll and Bute Council, Forestry and Land Scotland, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park as well as bus operators in relation to the possibility of various opportunities at the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint. Consideration of facilities are under review as part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment and will be finalised in due course.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 036

1) Initially doubtful, but impressed by engineers explanation + think being able to clear from top of debris flow shelter without shutting road.

2) Indifferent.

3) View from top of R + BT + up + down length of Glen Croe. I like the tree planting plan. Watercourses would be preserved + mostly visible, I hope?

4) a) Fairly obtrusive

b) Grass crete/ green parking areas, information boards OMR as walking trail.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are considering what materials can be used on the roof of the Debris Flow Shelter (DFS).

No decision has been made on the roof material and appearance and this will be confirmed in due course.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 037

1) Hope it negates the description over the last 10-12 years. Worried over the 4yr construction period and essential closure of the A83 during construction.

2) 2 way traffic to the military road is essential during construction phase.

3) Needs must / What about the recent road closure further along the A83 towards Inverary.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

The improvements to the OMR as part of the MTS will deliver a safe, proportionate and more resilient diversion route when the A83 is closed. The interventions will be in place prior to the construction of the LTS and reduce disruption to road users during the construction of the Debris Flow Shelter (DFS).

With respect to other works and road closures on the A83 within the vicinity of Inverary BEAR Scotland are the Trunk Road Operation Company for the area and are responsible for monitoring and managing any necessary works. Please refer to the BEAR Scotland website at the following link for details of current and proposed works on the A83 and other associated trunk interventions- https://www.bearscot.com/search/a83/.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 038

2) Consider intelligent traffic signals rather than convoy.

3) -Programme requires to be fast tracked, taking too long. -Economy of A&B and Campbeltown in particular has been stalled, who would invest or start a business until its in place. -Observation made that ferries being off has also greatly impacted tourist visitors to the area.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

Further work is currently being undertaken as part of the DMRB Stage 3 Assessment (which consists of a more detailed design of the preferred route) to consider the potential construction sequencing, with a key area of focus to reduce the impact of potential disruption to road users during construction and the associated impact this could have to the wider Argyll and Bute economy. It is noted that the options assessment work completed to date and the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment covers a range of factors which encompass economic considerations as well as performance against national and regional objectives.

The next step for the project which is the detailed design and assessment of the preferred option is progressing at pace and will conclude with the publication of draft Orders for comment, currently expected by the end of this year. Progress following the publication of draft Orders will depend on the level and nature of any representations, including objections, to the published draft Orders.

As with all our infrastructure projects, construction of the LTS can only commence if it is approved under the relevant statutory authorisation process and thereafter a timetable for construction can be determined in line with available budgets.

Work is being undertaken in accordance with the DMRB which is used to develop and assess road projects. This is considered standard good practice and is used throughout the UK. The DMRB Stage 2 Options Assessment work considered a range of environmental, engineering, traffic and economic factors. It also considered the performance against the national and regional objectives and the disruption to road users during construction, more information can be found in the DMRB Stage 2 Report.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 039

1) My own suggestion was to build a new road on the route of this old military road with stilts at the top bend area. However the new suggested bridge/ canopy looks very good.

2) Make the old military road one way down for single traffic and the Rest and Be Thankful one way up. This would lessen the need for traffic lights.

4a) I think that your proposals make the car park very accessible.

b) Build a new toilet block. Also I note that there will be better access for buses.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

Your suggestion of a viaduct type structure along the route of the Old Military Road (OMR) sounds similar to the Purple’Option we considered as part of our DMRB Stage 2 Options Assessment. The key reason to support the Debris Flow Shelter (DFS) as the preferred route option is that it achieves the scheme objectives of improving resilience and operational safety of the trunk road network. In addition to being the most favourable of all options across a broad range of environmental criteria, whilst having the greatest potential to be delivered quickly and providing the greatest opportunity to encourage sustainable travel.

Information on why the DFS and catch pit, on the line of the existing A83, have been identified as the preferred route for the proposed scheme can be found in the DMRB Stage 2 Report.

This will include traffic light operation and potentially considerable periods of full closures of the A83 where the OMR will be required to be in operation extensively during the construction period.

We have been engaging with Argyll and Bute Council, Forestry and Land Scotland, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park as well as bus operators in relation to the possibility of various opportunities at the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint. Consideration of facilities are under review as part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment and will be finalised in due course.

The design development of the car park layout and consideration of toilet facilities are under review as part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment and will be finalised in due course.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 040

1) Greatly appreciate this long standing problem of landslide to be overcome with a shelter over the A83 at RABT.

2) In order to get to long term solution, I appreciate we will have inconvenience. With as much dualling of the OMR as possible that will reduce waiting times. Short term pain for long term gain.

3) 1) Having the A83 open 24 hrs a day of RATB. 2) Having the road shelter blend in to the scenery. I like the design. 3) Just get the construction underway before I die!...

4) a) It is not well designed and bus not available in the winter. Turn off the Glen road very poor, needing eleaver of it from A83.

b) Have a proper visitor centre with car park for coaches, caravan, separate bays for HGVs. All year round stopping for buses.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

We have been engaging with Argyll and Bute Council, Forestry and Land Scotland, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park as well as bus operators in relation to the possibility of various opportunities at the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint. Consideration of facilities are under review as part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment and will be finalised in due course.

Design development of the car park layout as well as the need to accommodate a temporary diversion route via the OMR is ongoing and will be finalised in due course.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 041

1) Seems a very good solution.

2) Not entirely clear how OMR will be speeded up.

3)Will be visually exciting. All this sort of thing is done all over Europe.

4) a) Messy + disorganised. b) Lots of parking spaces - preferably overlooking the glen, cups of tea. Benches. Picnic area. Locals like us use it out of season - perhaps some street lighting?

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

Design development of the car park layout as well as the need to accommodate a temporary diversion route via the OMR is ongoing and will be finalised in due course.

We have been engaging with Argyll and Bute Council, Forestry and Land Scotland, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park as well as bus operators in relation to the possibility of various opportunities at the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint. Consideration of facilities are under review as part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment and will be finalised in due course.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 042

1) Long term this plan makes sense. I would like more clarity on the use of the road for bicycles. The video and plans show double white lines along the route. Will there be a option for bikes to utilize a separate path? Otherwise there will be significant hold ups while heading up the hill.

3) Just make it happen.

4) No interest in the carpark

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

Cyclists will be able to travel through the Debris Flow Shelter (DFS) on the existing road similar to the rest of the A83 Trunk Road. There will be a walkway alongside the DFS for maintenance and evacuation purposes however it will not be open to pedestrians or cyclists as there is no connecting cycle path or walkway currently on the A83.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 043

1) See below...

2) See below...

3)Overall I believe this represents a ‘sticking plaster’ that really does not provide a long term solution.

This road should promote growth and greater prosperity for the communities it feeds. A single carriageway does little to provide this. A public private initiative could achieve a better solution with the view to building an elegant bridge through the glen beside the existing A83.

4) Main requirement will be rest/refreshment and ev charging points.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

A viaduct option was considered as part of the DMRB Stage 2 Assessment however it was not taken forward as the preferred route. The key reason to support the Debris Flow Shelter (DFS) as the preferred route option is that it achieves the scheme objectives of improving resilience and operational safety of the trunk road network. In addition to being the most favourable of all options across a broad range of environmental criteria, whilst having the greatest potential to be delivered quickly and providing the greatest opportunity to encourage sustainable travel.

Information on why the DFS and catch pit, on the line of the existing A83, have been identified as the preferred route for the proposed scheme can be found in the DMRB Stage 2 Report.

The preferred route option is based on a single carriageway standard as set out in the DMRB and takes account of the existing and future traffic volume projections on the A83 Trunk Road. This therefore provides sufficient capacity for all road users and futureproofs the scheme to accommodate growth and development within Argyll and Bute.

We have been engaging with Argyll and Bute Council, Forestry and Land Scotland, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park as well as bus operators in relation to the possibility of various opportunities at the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint. Consideration of facilities are under review as part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment and will be finalised in due course.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 044

1) The solution is probably not that but instead the decision of TS officers. Given the recent landslides past Loch Restil, the long term plans offer no solution to landslides NW of the RABT but a tunnel from Butterbridge to Glen Croe would. Therefore, the current long term options builds in future problems by not bypassing the problem areas. It is not clear what provision is made for cycles in the debris shelter. The presentation appears to suggest that people cycle down the pavement on either side of the carriageway but this isn't clear.

2) It's isn't a medium term solution as it's just the same as present with some minor changes.

3) The long term plans are much more intrusive than a tunnel which would be invisible. Given the amount of construction required, the long term plans will have a long term and permanent negative impact on the landscape with increased visual presence once construction is complete. It is certainly less than a viaduct up the centre of the glen but much greater than a direct tunnel under the hill.

4) Retail - burger vans EV charging points

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

Tunnel options were considered as part of the DMRB Stage 2 Assessment however they were not taken forward as the preferred route. The key reasons to support the Debris Flow Shelter (DFS) as the preferred route option is that it achieves the scheme objectives of improving resilience and operational safety of the trunk road network. In addition to being the most favourable of all options across a broad range of environmental criteria, whilst having the greatest potential to be delivered quickly and providing the greatest opportunity to encourage sustainable travel.

Information on why the DFS and catch pit, on the line of the existing A83, have been identified as the preferred route for the proposed scheme can be found in the DMRB Stage 2 Report.

In October 2023 the area around the A83 Rest and Be Thankful saw a month’s worth of rainfall, around 160mm, fell over 36 hours. The catch pits and fences have ensured only a small amount of debris had reached the road at the Rest and Be Thankful itself. In the section of the A83 between Inverary and the Rest and Be Thankful, six further landslips deposited around 2,000 tonnes of debris. The road was cleared and opened to traffic within a couple of days highlighting the resilient measures in place to ensure access to Argyll communities.

For over 15 years, the Scottish Road Network Landslide Study has guided how landslide risks are managed across the whole of the trunk road network, including the wider A83 Trunk Road beyond the Rest and Be Thankful. Depending on the records and location-specific issues, this has seen risk reduction measures implemented such as warning signage erected, mitigation schemes constructed or regular monitoring. This approach continues and the October 2023 events, when heavy and persistent rainfall caused major impacts on the trunk and local road networks, with significant disruption across Argyll, feed into ongoing work for the safe operation of the A83.

Following the assessment of the three options, in December 2022, a proportionate programme of improvements to the Old Military Road (OMR) was announced as the preferred option for the Medium-Term Solution (MTS) which will not only improve its safety and resilience as a diversion route, but also improve the operation by extending the length of two-way operation, reducing journey times. The two-way operation will cover the southern end of the OMR only, due to the topography and tight bends at the northern end this will remain single lane.

Full details of the assessment to support the selection of the preferred option for the MTS can be found on the website.

Cyclists will be able to travel through the DFS on the existing road similar to the rest of the A83 Trunk Road. There will be a walkway alongside the DFS for maintenance and evacuation purposes however it will not be open to pedestrians or cyclists as there is no connecting cycle path or walkway currently on the A83.

We are currently considering opportunities for an active travel link from the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint to the forestry tracks on the lower slopes of Ben Donich, to the west of the OMR, as identified on the information boards displayed at the public engagement events.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are aiming to mitigate both visual and landscape impacts wherever possible. This includes consideration of slanted or truss columns on the DFS and whether the roof of the structure can include some form of natural low-level planting or grass.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 045

1) My worry would be the weight of any fall coming through the walls of the Debris Deflector. Over time will the debris pits fill up? I thought the idea of the covered tunnel was that falls and slips passed over the top of the tunnel. It is effectively part of the hillside, rather than acting as a barrier to debris.

2) Have not seen a medium term solution.

3) In view of the problem I think the Debris Deflector fits in quite well. The Rest and Be Thankful to me is a gateway into Argyll. The scenery is first class. Passing over R&BT is always a landmark in my journey

4) A viewpoint.

A permanent refreshment point such as at the Braemar Junction in Wester Ross.

No EV facilities. They lead to queues and arguments and would require additional electric grid connections.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are considering what materials can be used on the roof of the Debris Flow Shelter (DFS).

A six-meter-wide catch pit is proposed to run parallel along the full length of the DFS and the Debris Flow Protection Wall (DFW) located at the northern end of the DFS. The catch pit’s main function is to capture material from landslides and rockfall, mitigating direct impacts to the DFS and DFW structures. Details of why this option evolved to include catch pits, as opposed to allowing the material to flow over the roof are contained in the DMRB Stage 2 Report. This was fundamentally due to the impact of how debris material and water moved across the structure, particularly with respect to the impact this may have on the resilience of the structure, downstream slope stability and water environment.

No decision has been made on the roof material and appearance and this will be confirmed in due course.

The Medium-Term Solution (MTS), announced in December 2022, is a proportionate programme of improvements to the OMR and will not only improve its safety and resilience as a diversion route, but also improve the operation by extending the length of two-way operation, reducing the journey times. The two-way operation will cover the southern end of the OMR only, due to the topography and tight bends at the northern end this will remain single lane.

Full details of the assessment to support the selection of the preferred option for the MTS can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

We have been engaging with Argyll and Bute Council, Forestry and Land Scotland, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park as well as bus operators in relation to the possibility of various opportunities at the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint. Consideration of facilities are under review as part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment and will be finalised in due course.

The design development of the car park layout and consideration of facilities to be provided are under review as part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment and will be finalised in due course.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 046

1) We are happy that a solution has been arrived at after an extended period of poor access through this area. The only concern we have is that there will be a continual expenditure from clearing the debris pits, and that this will become much more frequent in future due to climate change. A solution where the landslide debris would not interact at all with the road would have been preferable. (E.g. fully enclosed tunnel or road raised on pylons.

2) The proposed works seem to solve most of the problems associated mitigate uncertainty over the short term viability of the route.

3) We are quite fond of the rock outcrop near the top of the road is this removal necessary, as it adds to the scenic quality of the route?

The illustrations and video show the flow shelter as pale grey with a darker (tarmac?) top. Is this the proposed final colour scheme?

As the proposed flow shelter is not particularly visually attractive (as a pyloned roadway would have been) it is important that the installation blends into the landscape rather than standing out.

4) The existing road arrangement seems a little pinched. The new proposals seem to allow for more ease of use.

We would like to see a reasonably sized viewpoint/seating/picnic area, (fresh water fountain?) Also space set aside for commercial use e.g. snack bar, souvenir stand. (If these were allowed an increased parking area might be needed) (Would a toilet facility be possible/desirable?)

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

Various options were considered as part of the DMRB Stage 2 Assessment including a tunnel and viaduct. However, the key reason to support the Debris Flow Shelter (DFS) as the preferred route option is that it achieves the scheme objectives of improving resilience and operational safety of the trunk road network. In addition to being the most favourable of all options across a broad range of environmental criteria, whilst having the greatest potential to be delivered quickly and providing the greatest opportunity to encourage sustainable travel.

Information on why the DFS and catch pit, on the line of the existing A83, have been identified as the preferred route for the proposed scheme can be found in the DMRB Stage 2 Report.

A six-meter-wide catch pit is proposed to run parallel to the DFS and the Debris Flow Protection Wall (DFW) located at the northern end of the DFS. The catch pit’s main function is to capture material from landslides and rockfall, mitigating direct impacts to the DFS and DFW structures.

Providing the catch pit parallel to the DFS and DFW also allows the landslip and rockfall material to be cleared following an event. The clear up operation will include the material being excavated by a construction plant situated on the roof of the DFS. This approach will allow traffic to continue running on the A83 during and after a landslide event. The specific maintenance requirements and costs associated with the clearance and debris removal has been considered as part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment.

Significant rock cutting is required for the construction of the proposed Long-Term Solution (LTS) scheme which unfortunately includes the removal of the existing rock crop located to the north of the DFS. This is required to accommodate the realignment of the A83 carriageway which will improve forward visibility for drivers and overall safety of the road.

The colour of materials including the structural elements and road surface within the DFS presented in the visualisation at the engagement events are noted to be a general representation. Selection of specific materials, thereby influencing factors such as colour and texture are subject to ongoing consideration during the DMRB Stage 3 Assessment and subsequent design development stages of the scheme.

We are also aiming to mitigate both visual and landscape impacts wherever possible. This includes consideration of slanted or truss columns on the DFS and whether the roof of the structure can include some form of natural low-level planting or grass.

Furthermore, we are currently preparing an Environmental Impact Assessment Report which includes specific assessments relating to both visual and landscape impacts. This assessment will determine whether there are any significant impacts as a result of the proposed scheme, whilst also identifying specific mitigation measures relating to both the construction and operational phases.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 047

3) The long term solution should

1) blend in with the landscape and not be a blot

2) benefit the local environment and ecosystem

3) add social value

On the third point, can this be turned into a tourist attraction in its own right? E.g. open access to the roof of the tunnel to pedestrians (when landslide risk is low) as a safe area to explore the glen.

4) The existing car park is fit for purpose but here may be an opportunity to improve this with a visitor centre, cafe and toilets to profit from the tourist traffic on this route.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are considering what materials can be used on the roof of the Debris Flow Shelter (DFS).

The roof of the DFS will be used solely for operation and maintenance purposes and therefore access will not be available for pedestrian purposes.

We are committed to placing public engagement and meaningful dialogue with affected communities and other stakeholders at the heart of the development. This includes identifying and delivering community benefits which are currently being explored as part of the ongoing scheme development.

The design development of the car park layout and consideration of toilet facilities are under review as part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment and will be finalised in due course.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 048

1) I think this is a great solution. Rest and be Thankful is our preferred way to get to Inveraray, and we always feel that our holiday starts here with the splendid scenery all around. I’m glad that the tunnel will be open on the valley side so that the views can still be enjoyed.

2) Again, a great solution to a tricky problem.

3) I think the long term solution fits very well. It provides SAFE PASSAGE, maintains the VIEWS OF THE LANDSCAPE and allows people to SAFELY STOP TO TAKE IN THE SCENERY. I just hope a sensible speed limit is applied in this area and that people stick to it.

4) I have never stopped at the existing car park.

I hope that toilets might be considered at the new car park and hope that people respect them and do not vandalise them. As the car park is only small, I think a cafe would be too much, but maybe some tourist info could be provided.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are aiming to mitigate both visual and landscape impacts wherever possible. This includes consideration of slanted or truss columns on the Debris Flow Shelter (DFS) and whether the roof of the structure can include some form of natural low-level planting or grass.

Furthermore, as part of the DMRB Stage 3 Assessment the development of the road alignment design and junctions has taken into account a wide range of factors including the proposed speed limit. For road user safety and consistency along the A83 Trunk Road, it is currently proposed that the national speed limit will be in place throughout the entire length of the proposed Long-Term Solution (LTS) scheme extents.

The design development of the car park layout and consideration of toilet facilities are under review as part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment and will be finalised in due course.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 049

1) This plan looks like a halfhearted attempt to resolve a major trunk route failure which leaves a huge part of Scotland regularly cut off by landslides and bad weather.

This plan partially addresses the landslide threat, but the concrete canopy is still exposed to the force of a major landslide and the catchpit will require regular emptying. A proper tunnel inside the mountain would be better protected. The canopy only covers part of the threat areas, leaving other areas unprotected where landslides have previously occurred. It fails to achieve its aim if the unprotected areas of road become blocked.

A very common cause of road closure is snow and the rest and be thankful is very exposed to this threat due to its elevation. If a tunnel through the full length of the landslide risk zone was constructed, it would greatly reduce the additional risk of closures due to snow and allow the Western Highland to remain connected to the rest of Scotland in all but the most extreme weather.

2) Why waste any more money on 'mediumterm' solutions (which we have already suffered for decades).

Just get on with it and fix the problem permanently and properly. It is a national disgrace that needs fixing now!

3) A concrete canopy is not very appropriate within such a dramatic landscape, but it it is the only solution, then the requirement to keep the road open is more important than the view.

4) Irrelevant to the problem and if the road solution is being held back for budget reasons, don't increase the cost unnecessarily and risk even further delays.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

Tunnel options were considered as part of the DMRB Stage 2 Assessment however it was the Debris Flow Shelter (DFS) which was announced as the preferred route option. The key reason to support the DFS as the preferred route option is that it achieves the scheme objectives of improving resilience and operational safety of the trunk road network. In addition to being the most favourable of all options across a broad range of environmental criteria, whilst having the greatest potential to be delivered quickly and providing the greatest opportunity to encourage sustainable travel.

Information on why the DFS and catch pit, on the line of the existing A83, have been identified as the preferred route for the proposed scheme can be found in the DMRB Stage 2 Report.

Following the assessment of the three options, in December 2022, a proportionate programme of improvements to the OMR was announced as the preferred option for the Medium-Term Solution (MTS) which will not only improve its safety and resilience as a diversion route, but also improve the operation by extending the length of two-way operation, reducing journey times. The two-way operation will cover the southern end of the OMR only, due to the topography and tight bends at the northern end this will remain single lane.

Full details of the assessment to support the selection of the preferred option for the MTS can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are aiming to mitigate both visual and landscape impacts wherever possible. This includes consideration of slanted or truss columns on the DFS and whether the roof of the structure can include some form of natural low-level planting or grass.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 050

1) Noting my home address will indicate to you the very widespread importance of getting this solution right

- I fully support it from what has been presented to me.

-Aesthetically, I imagine a "green" living roof for the debris flow shelter will best integrate the dbs into its environment, when viewed from the RABT car park.

2) [Redacted]

I wonder if, following delivery of the LTS, the MTS could be utilised for public events running, cycling, classic car and other motorsport events the OMR has been a hill climb course in the past?

3) -A green / living roof.

-Suggest frequent road side signage on the ascent, pointing to the car park, to discourage motorists from simply stopping in the carriageway to admire the view.

-Appropriate internal lighting to the DFS will be an important consideration and it is not clear whether you are constrained by the availabiliy of power. But it could be made to be quite artistic!

4) -Maybe some shelters from where to enjoy the view even in inclement weather?

-extensive litter management provision!

-[Redacted]

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are considering what materials can be used on the roof of the Debris Flow Shelter (DFS).

No decision has been made on the roof material and appearance and this will be confirmed in due course.

Cyclists will be able to travel through the DFS on the existing road similar to the rest of the A83 Trunk Road. There will be a walkway alongside the DFS for maintenance and evacuation purposes however it will not be open to pedestrians or cyclists as there is no connecting cycle path or walkway currently on the A83.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are undertaking a lighting assessment in order to better understand what daytime and night-time lighting is required within the structure. This takes account of the potential “strobe” effect and the change in light on both entry and exit from the structure. This work also takes account of the different column arrangements under consideration (e.g. vertical columns or slanted, truss columns).

We have been engaging with Argyll and Bute Council, Forestry and Land Scotland, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park as well as bus operators in relation to the possibility of various opportunities at the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint. Consideration of facilities are under review as part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment and will be finalised in due course.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 051

1) More thought has been given to this solution than previously and it will no doubt work with regard to landslides. However, if the cost to commerce is taken into account by four more years of delay to traffic then it will probably not be cost effective. it May well be more cost effective to put a new upgraded road straight up Glen Croe and then through a tunnel. This method will not need to disrupt traffic during construction with the attendant substantial saving of costs. Has the disruption been costed? There is no evidence publicly that it has.

2) This solution will cause much delay and 5ths disruption to commerce. This been taken into consideration when choosing the proposed scheme.

3) In the context that the road is vital to the commerce of Argyll, an effective road is far more important than how it looks. A low level road will always look better than one half way up the hillside.

4) The car park is not relevant to the necessity of an effective open road. It is merely an attractive tourist attraction. Please do not forget the real necessity for an open fast road as the main connection into Argyll.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

We understand the frustration felt by local communities caused by disruption along the A83 and in particular at the Rest and Be Thankful.

We note your suggestion for a route through Glen Croe including a tunnel, this option was the Purple Option which was considered as part of the DMRB Stage 2 Assessment however the key reasons to support the Debris Flow Shelter (DFS) as the preferred route option are that it achieves the scheme objectives of improving resilience and operational safety of the trunk road network. In addition to being the most favourable of all options across a broad range of environmental criteria, whilst having the greatest potential to be delivered quickly and providing the greatest opportunity to encourage sustainable travel.

Information on why the DFS and catch pit, on the line of the existing A83, have been identified as the preferred route for the proposed scheme can be found in the DMRB Stage 2 Report.

The MTS, announced in December 2022, which is a proportionate programme of improvements to the OMR will not only improve its safety and resilience as a diversion route, but also improve the operation by extending the length of two-way operation, reducing the journey times. The two-way operation will cover the southern end of the OMR only, due to the topography and tight bends at the northern end this will remain single lane.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 052

1) I am disappointed with the 'utilitarian' design of the 'debris flow shelter' which would be more acceptable if there was better integration into the surrounding natural landscape.

There's little mention of tree planting is this an oversight, deliberate, or outwith this project?

There's virtually no mention of sustainable transport, particularly in relation to walkers and cyclists. This may be because there's no real requirement currently but perhaps there's no requirement currently because it's not feasible at present. Whereas incorporating sustainable transport options might encourage more walkers and cyclists (in particular, for whom the Rest is a 'destination'.)

2) I hope that the MTS won't permanently damage the historical nature of the Old Rest road.

3) 1. Should be minimal such that the area still feels 'wild'

2. Should have minimal visual impact on the surrounding landscape

3. Should feel part of the landscape, rather than shut off from (as in a tunnel)

4) Better integration with walking and cycling routes.

Toilets?

Provision for (limited) services e.g. food, in a way that has minimal impact on the landscape and environment (e.g. electrical supply to minimise noisy generators) Minimal impact on landscape

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

Information on why the DFS and catch pit, on the line of the existing A83, have been identified as the preferred route for the proposed scheme can be found in the DMRB Stage 2 Report.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are aiming to mitigate both visual and landscape impacts wherever possible. This includes consideration of slanted or truss columns on the DFS and whether the roof of the structure can include some form of natural low-level planting or grass and try and integrate it into the surrounding environment as much as possible.

In addition, we are currently preparing an Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR) which includes specific assessments relating to both visual and landscape impacts. This assessment will determine whether there are any significant impacts as a result of the proposed scheme, whilst also identifying specific mitigation measures relating to both the construction and operational phases.

Cyclists will be able to travel through the DFS on the existing road similar to the rest of the A83 TrunkRoad. There will be a walkway alongside the DFS for maintenance and evacuation purposes however it will not be open to pedestrians or cyclists as there is no connecting cycle path or walkway currently on the A83.

The improvements to the OMR as part of the Medium-Term Solution (MTS) will deliver a safe, proportionate and more resilient diversion route when the A83 is closed. The interventions will be in place prior to the construction of the Long-Term Solution (LTS) and reduce disruption to road users during the construction of the DFS. The historical nature and cultural heritage aspects of the OMR are recognised and have been factored into the EIAR which is in preparation. The proposed works for the MTS have fully considered the unique setting and its characteristics as it extends through Glen Croe.

We have been engaging with Argyll and Bute Council, Forestry and Land Scotland, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park as well as bus operators in relation to the possibility of various opportunities at the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint. Consideration of facilities are under review as part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment and will be finalised in due course.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 053

1) It's probably the only viable solution, and certainly more reasonable than most of the earlier "alternative" suggestions!

Regarding the detailed design, it would be important to have a dedicated cyclelane on the uphill side frustrated motorists overtaking cycles going uphill is already a problem on the A83, and would potentially be more dangerous within the covered section.

Thought needs to be given to the sudden changes of road surface going into, and out of, the covered section especially in heavy rain and even moreso when it has snowed and the ploughs have yet to clear the road. There can easily be several inches of snow at the top of the Rest before the ploughs arrive, with the additional possibility of drifting against the ends of the new structure.

2) Again, there probably isn't an alternative. I wonder about the expense of upgrading some sections to two lanes when the singlelane bottleneck of the Sbends will remain but your consultants explained that this was to maximise the number of vehicles which could be handled to optimise convoys, so I won't question that analysis.

3) I think the devil will be in the details here. There's no getting away from the fact that a massive structure will be imposed on the highlyscenic landscape but hopefully you'll arrive at a design which is (a) as unobtrusive as possible and/or (b) I guess could become a tourist attraction in its own right. Not sure what you mean with "how I interact with the landscape". [Redacted] [Redacted], I drive frequently via the B828 and the Rest, and would want that journey to be as efficient and safe as possible, in all weather conditions. My partner and I also occasionally use the Helensburgh bus which takes the same route, or the local Lochgoil bus which connects with the [Redacted] buses at the Rest car park.

4) Problems with the existing car park:

-With access being awkward, [Redacted] buses don't always pull into the dedicated stop, as they should.

-The above is exacerbated by the large number of tourist coaches that stop illegally in the dedicated [Redacted] stop area, especially at high season. This is a major problem.

-The above tourist coaches then disgorge their occupants, who invariably stand dangerously on the B828 taking photographs of Loch Restil.

-At the exit of the car park, the existing junction of the B828 and the A83 is risky when approached from any of the 3 directions.

The opportunities are to mitigate each of the above:

-Easier access for [Redacted] buses (from each direction on the A83) to their dedicated stop.

-Designated, easyaccess parking spaces for tourist coaches, so they don't use the above.

-Pavement or similar safe standing area for tourists to photograph Loch Restil without standing on the B828 roadway.

-Additional lanes and better sighting on the various approaches to the B828/A83 junction (as you have in your latest design).

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

Cyclists will be able to travel through the Debris Flow Shelter (DFS) on the existing road similar to the rest of the A83 Trunk Road. There will be a walkway alongside the DFS for maintenance and evacuation purposes however it will not be open to pedestrians or cyclists as there is no connecting cycle path or walkway currently on the A83.

Your comment with respect to changes in road conditions and surfaces when transitioning between the open carriageway and the DFS is noted. This aspect has been subject to further design development work as part of the DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, which has included the development of proposals to mitigate impacts on the water environment, including sustainable drainage proposals. Issues related to snow clearance would be considered and managed by the Trunk Road Operating Company as part of the overall operation of the A83 Trunk Road.

The improvements to the OMR as part of the MTS will deliver a safe, proportionate and more resilient diversion route when the A83 is closed. The interventions will be in place prior to the construction of the Long-Term Solution (LTS) and reduce disruption to road users during the construction of the Debris Flow Shelter (DFS).

Full details of the assessment to support the selection of the preferred option for the MTS can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are aiming to mitigate both visual and landscape impacts wherever possible. This includes consideration of slanted or truss columns on the debris flow shelter and whether the roof of the structure can include some form of natural low-level planting or grass.

We have been engaging with Argyll and Bute Council, Forestry and Land Scotland, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park as well as bus operators in relation to the possibility of various opportunities at the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint. Consideration of facilities are under review as part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment and will be finalised in due course.

Design development of the car park layout as well as the need to accommodate a temporary diversion route via the OMR is ongoing and will be finalised in due course.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 054

1) Why are we spending half a billion on this? There was a plan to plant trees on the hillside above the Rest, this would cost a lot less than £500,000,000. This is what they do in Norway etc.

3)Remove the sheep, plant trees. Don't just give £500,000,000 [Redacted]

4) A) Present car park is adequate. Could be extended if facilities are improved.

B) A locally sourced food offering.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

Information on why the DFS and catch pit, on the line of the existing A83, have been identified as the preferred route for the proposed scheme can be found in the DMRB Stage 2 Report.

We have been engaging with Argyll and Bute Council, Forestry and Land Scotland, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park as well as bus operators in relation to the possibility of various opportunities at the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint. Consideration of facilities are under review as part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment and will be finalised in due course.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 055

1) Think this works well. Sounds reasonable solution. And looks good too. Long time for being done but hopefully will fix all the issues. More consultation regarding cyclists as this could be problematic in the shelter

2) Sounds reasonable as long as we can still get through if main road gets shut at any point. Needs better signage at Inveraray and Tarbet. (or the hard signs updated in a timely manner as they can be misleading)

3) Needs to retain view Feel safe when driving Car parking facilities inc toilets

4) Difficult to get in and out of at busy times. Poor driving can be an issue up there! Toilets. Good signage. Inc indicate in plenty of time signs! Viewpoint history and details. Food truck Seating areas.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

Cyclists will be able to travel through the Debris Flow Shelter (DFS) on the existing road similar to the rest of the A83 Trunk Road. There will be a walkway alongside the DFS for maintenance and evacuation purposes however it will not be open to pedestrians or cyclists as there is no connecting cycle path or walkway currently on the A83.

The Medium-Term Solution (MTS), announced in December 2022, is a proportionate programme of improvements to the OMR and will not only improve its safety and resilience as a diversion route, but also improve the operation by extending the length of two-way operation, reducing the journey times. The improvements to the OMR as part of the MTS will deliver a safe, proportionate and more resilient diversion route when the A83 is closed. The interventions will be in place prior to the construction of the Long-Term Solution (LTS) and reduce disruption to road users during the construction of the DFS.

Full details of the assessment to support the selection of the preferred option for the MTS can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Design development of the car park layout as well as the need to accommodate a temporary diversion route via the OMR is ongoing and will be confirmed in due course.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 056

3) 1. Where will any debris accumulating between the hillside and the debris shelter be deposited, bearing in mind that the shelter will be located within a national park?

2. Is the present planting on the hillside between the A83 and Beinn Luibhean - the woodland creation project? - complete? Further planting would help to stablise the hillside.

3. The view at the Butterbridge is considered to be significant, according to the landscape study, but, at present, is blighted by unsightly dumped spoil and profiling. This area is an important access point for hill walkers.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

Further information on why the DFS and catch pit have been identified as the preferred route for the proposed scheme can be found in the DMRB Stage 2 Report.

Providing the catch pit parallel to the DFS and DFW also allows the landslip and rockfall material to be cleared following an event. The clear up operation will include the material being excavated by a construction plant situated on the roof of the DFS. This approach will allow traffic to continue running on the A83 during and after a landslide event. The specific maintenance requirements and costs associated with the clearance and debris removal has been considered as part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment. The exact location where debris material will be deposited will be subject to consideration by the trunk road operating company once construction has been completed in order to approve and authorise waste disposal sites.

The concerns raised of dumped spoil at the Butterbridge location has been noted and this has been shared with Argyll and Bute Council and BEAR Scotland who are the trunk road operating company for the A83.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 057

1) Generally in favour of the plan. I think the more the industrial looking parts are concealed/blended with the environment the better. The suggestion of an biodiversity supporting roof was appealing. I am concerned about some of the, in my opinion, unnecessary reprofiling to increase visabilty. You must remember this is not the city and any reprofiling can significantly change the feel of the area. The characteristic rock crop near the top of the rest, on the corner looks like it is to be removed. This should not happen. It's part of the rugged feel of the area when travelling. Any increased visibility gained by removing it would be of no value and why increase costs? Please leave it behind. I will be raising this with [Redacted].

3) Make the structure complimentary with the surrounding nature. Do not reprofile land that doesn't need it. Keep as much of the land the same as possible. The surrounding nature and land is priority not the road.

4) It's fine as it is. No need to develop further.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are considering what materials can be used on the roof of the Debris Flow Shelter (DFS).

No decision has been made on the roof material and appearance and this will be confirmed in due course.

Significant rock cutting is required for the construction of the proposed Long-Term Solution (LTS) which unfortunately includes the removal of the existing rock crop located to the north of the DFS. This is required to accommodate the realignment of the A83 carriageway which will improve forward visibility for drivers and overall safety of the road.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are aiming to mitigate both visual and landscape impacts wherever possible. This includes consideration of slanted or truss columns on the debris flow shelter and whether the roof of the structure can include some form of natural low-level planting or grass.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 058

1) I think the long term solution will eventually make the area safe and over time like most construction projects will blend into the landscape.

2) The short term solution also seems like it’s been well thought out and if managed well should mitigate any delays that will inevitably happen when accidents and breakdowns occur.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

Furthermore, we are continuing to develop proposals in line with the emerging design and in accordance with relevant design standards and legislation. This includes consideration of how to prevent and limit the consequences of an emergency incident. Other related aspects under ongoing assessment include both fire and smoke modelling work and a lighting assessment, to determine what daytime, night-time and emergency lighting is required within the structure.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 059

1) I am [Redacted] years old and if I am honest I don't think I will live to see the completion of the long-term solution. I have zero confidence in the present Scottish Government finally ending the years of inconvenience to motorists. I can probably count on 2 hands the number of times I have driven over the RABT in the last 10 years without being stopped by traffic lights or diverted.

2) As I explained over the page I have no confidence in the present Scottish Government ever completing this road. If the A9 route is an example and also the lack of ferry provision is anything to go by then I can't see it ever happening.

3) 1) Being able to drive over the RABT without being delayed!

4) a) Adequate

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

We understand the frustration felt by local communities caused by disruption along the A83 and in particular at the Rest and Be Thankful.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 060

1) Just like to begin by saying the virtual exhibition is very impressive and professional.

What are the maintenance requirements for the debris 'catch pit'? If a large boulder was fall into the pit how would it be retrieved safely and quickly. Are there regular inspections to the catch pit that will prevent closure?

Is there not a need for an overtaking section along the sheltered area? There is no hard shoulder provided in case of breakdown.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

A six-metre-wide catch pit is proposed to run parallel to the Debris Flow Shelter (DFS) and the Debris Flow Protection Wall (DFW). The catch pit’s main function is to capture material from landslides and rockfall, mitigating direct impacts to the DFS and DFW.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are considering in detail what procedures need to be in place within the DFS in the event of a vehicle breakdown or fire.

Going forward, we will continue to develop proposals in line with the emerging design and in accordance with relevant design standards and legislation. Other aspects under ongoing investigation include both fire and smoke modelling work and a lighting assessment, to determine what daytime, night-time and emergency lighting is required within the structure.

Further details of the requirements and procedures will be confirmed in due course.

It is important to note that the Highway Code states that vehicles are allowed to cross a solid white line where there are stationary or slow-moving road users including cyclists, horse riders or maintenance vehicles travelling at 10mph or less, where it is safe to do so. This applies to cyclists travelling in the DFS and along the rest of the A83 Trunk Road. Additionally, the road within the DFS will be 9.3m wide, include two 3.65m lanes and 1m hardstrips with 2.5m wide verges. This road width is wider than the existing A83 and will aid the passing of slow-moving road users.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 061

1) Cycling - it doesn't look like any thought has been given to cycling. Cycle tourism is a large and growing source of income and has the potential to be much greater, if we had the infrastructure to service it. Are cyclists to use the military road? If so, please promote this point.

4) The thing people value most about it is sitting in their car and enjoying the view down the glen. The current renders show very few parking spaces at this end of the car park and none with the right orientation. If you don't cater for demand, people will park nose-in anyway and will park on the grass.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

Cyclists will be able to travel through the DFS on the existing road similar to the rest of the A83 Trunk Road. There will be a walkway alongside the DFS for maintenance and evacuation purposes however it will not be open to pedestrians or cyclists as there is no connecting cycle path or walkway currently on the A83.

Provision for cyclists during the construction period will depend upon the appointed contractor’s approach to the operation of the Old Military Road (OMR). However, the current arrangement in place when the OMR is used as the diversion route when the A83 needs to close due to the risk of landslide and debris flow events, involves cyclists being transported along the OMR by van.

We are currently considering opportunities for an active travel link from the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint to the forestry tracks on the lower slopes of Ben Donich, to the west of the OMR, as identified on the information boards displayed at the engagement events.

Design development of the car park layout as well as the need to accommodate a temporary diversion route via the OMR is ongoing and will be confirmed in due course.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 062

1) It is the obvious solution that we’ve all been banging on about for years and, although long overdue, is very welcome.

2) Much better than a long diversion and sounds sensible in its mitigations etc

3) 1 That the landscape preservation doesn’t lead to accidents or deaths (ie the work needs to be done)

2 That deforestation is only done with proper consideration

3 That views of mountains and glens can be enjoyed while travelling (but not at risk of death)

4) Coffee stop!

Sheltered area.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are aiming to mitigate both visual and landscape impacts wherever possible. This includes consideration of slanted or truss columns on the Debris Flow Shelter (DFS) and whether the roof of the structure can include some form of natural low-level planting or grass.

The key reasons to support the DFS as the preferred route option are that it achieves the scheme objectives of improving resilience and operational safety of the trunk road network. In addition to being the most favourable of all options across a broad range of environmental criteria, whilst having the greatest potential to be delivered quickly and providing the greatest opportunity to encourage sustainable travel.

Information on why the DFS and catch pit, on the line of the existing A83, have been identified as the preferred route for the proposed scheme can be found in the DMRB Stage 2 Report.

We have been engaging with Argyll and Bute Council, Forestry and Land Scotland, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park as well as bus operators in relation to the possibility of various opportunities at the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint. Consideration of facilities are under review as part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment and will be finalised in due course.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 063

1) For me it’s completely the wrong choice. I don’t doubt it’s a suitable engineering solution after all numerous other countries have taken the same action however there appears to be no appreciation of the disruption that will be caused on the A83 when you do the works. This will take years meaning we will have to use a convoy system that adds up to 30 mins to your journey. What is the economic and social cost of this? Where can I see the cost benefit analysis of this built in delay. We have already lost companies in Argyll due to the vulnerability of the Rest and we will lose a lot more. The better option was to build an elevated road on the other side of the Glen but this was ruled out on account of delivery but in reality it was capital costs. However I don’t think this took account of the economic cost of delays to traffic using the A83 and the works you need to do to the OMR.

2) A complete waste of public money as it fails to provide a solution to having to use a convoy system on what will become a trunk road into Argyll for a number of years as you build the shelter.

In addition you will have to come clean that you have effectively abandoned any work to the A82 north of Tarbet until these works have finished. The A82 is a disgrace of a Trunk road and represents a real danger to the public and effectively a brake on economic development on the west coast of Scotland.

3) It does not it will be an alien structure in the National Park. The flat roof makes no attempt to recognise the landscape sensitivities and this adds to the complete mess of pits, bunds and cages that have been built over a number of years. This is a special landscape however the solutions fail to recognise this and instead deliver the cheapest option available. Let’s not pretend otherwise.

4) It’s far from satisfactory. It has been largely used by transport Scotland vehicles particularly when the convoy is in place and presumably this will be the case once the road is under construction. It could be a great asset with a famous view instead it will now be a viewing area for major engineering works for years. This adds to the mess that has been allowed to accumulate in lay-bys on the A63 at Butter bridge and the unfinished works in the Glen and also the massive damage to the slopes above the A83 in that location. What will be done about that?

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

Work is being undertaken in accordance with the DMRB which is used to develop and assess road projects. This is considered standard good practice and is used throughout the UK. The DMRB Stage 2 Options Assessment work considered a range of environmental, engineering, traffic and economic factors. It also considered the performance against the national and regional objectives and the disruption to road users during construction, more information can be found in the DMRB Stage 2 Report. Further economic assessment is being done as part of Stage 3 Assessment.

A number of options, including the Green Option on the other side of the Glen, were considered as part of the DMRB Stage 2 Assessment. However, the key reasons to support the Debris Flow Shelter (DFS) as the preferred route option are that it achieves the scheme objectives of improving resilience and operational safety of the trunk road network. In addition to being the most favourable of all options across a broad range of environmental criteria, whilst having the greatest potential to be delivered quickly and providing the greatest opportunity to encourage sustainable travel.

Information on why the DFS and catch pit, on the line of the existing A83, have been identified as the preferred route for the proposed scheme can be found in the DMRB Stage 2 Report.

Full details of the assessment to support the selection of the preferred option for the MTS can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are aiming to mitigate both visual and landscape impacts wherever possible. This includes consideration of slanted or truss columns on the debris flow shelter and whether the roof of the structure can include some form of natural low-level planting or grass.

We have been engaging with Argyll and Bute Council, Forestry and Land Scotland, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park as well as bus operators in relation to the possibility of various opportunities at the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint. Consideration of facilities are under review as part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment and will be finalised in due course.

The concerns raised regarding spoil material at the Butterbridge location and landslide damage to the adjacent hillside are noted and this has been shared with BEAR Scotland who are the trunk road operating company for the A83.

With respect to proposals for the A82 the Scottish Government is committed to improving the A82 between Tarbet and Inverarnan. The proposed improvement between Tarbet and Inverarnan comprises approximately 17km of new single carriageway that generally follows the line of the existing A82 Trunk Road, with localised offline sections where the existing road alignment is significantly substandard. When completed, the scheme will bring improved road safety and journey time reliability, connecting businesses and communities in the Highlands and Islands with the Central Belt.

Whilst there is a lot of development work still to be undertaken, which is being informed by our enhanced understanding of the specific complexities associated with improving this iconic route, we continue to take forward the preparation stages.

Delivery of the scheme itself can only commence if it is approved under the relevant statutory procedures and thereafter a timetable for progress can be set in accordance with the availability of funding.

The Scottish Government has been clear that construction work on the A82 Tarbet to Inverarnan scheme would not take place at the same time as improvements to the A83 at the Rest and be Thankful in order to avoid significant disruption for local residents and businesses. Subject to the successful completion of the statutory process, the programme for delivery of the A82 Tarbet to Inverarnan scheme will be considered carefully to avoid overlap with the work on the A83 at the Rest and Be Thankful.

For further information on the A82 scheme visit A82 Tarbet to Inverarnan (transport.gov.scot).

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 064

1) An open-sided gallery is the best solution in view of the quantity of Dangerous Goods which travel in both directions on the A83 -and the sooner the better

2) Improving the Old military Road is desirable because in the interlude there will inevitably be other periods of disruption

3) I think the Rest & Be Thankful is incredibly scenic and improving car parks will allow people to "stop & stare" which has frankly not been possible for many years.

The provision of toilet facilities would be helpful altho it might attract camper vans

The landslides and bunds do scar the landscape so if these happened less the beauty of the area would be more apparent

4) The existing car park is inadequate; there should be a modicum of facilities esp toilets and ideally it might appeal to a catering business

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are aiming to mitigate both visual and landscape impacts wherever possible. This includes consideration of slanted or truss columns on the Debris Flow Shelter and whether the roof of the structure can include some form of natural low-level planting or grass.

Full details of the assessment to support the selection of the preferred option for the MTS can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 065

Thank you for sharing this consultation.

I am completely bewildered about why you are building a flow shelter but with a "catch-pit" behind it! The whole point of a flow shelter is that water and debris from landslides goes over the top of the shelter not down the back. It would completely defeat the purpose to build a catch pit along the back which then has to be cleared out every time there is a landslip - at great expense and possibly requiring the closure of the road. This would actually make the current situation even worse - at least now you can clear out the catch pits relatively quickly.

There are large numbers of these structures on mountain roads in the Alps and I have never seen one where there is a catch pit down the back. Please please consult with European engineers before going any further with this absurd design.

[Redacted]

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

Information on why the DFS and catch pit, on the line of the existing A83, have been identified as the preferred route for the proposed scheme can be found in the DMRB Stage 2 Report.

The six-metre-wide catch pit is proposed to run parallel to the DFS and the Debris Flow Protection Wall (DFW). The catch pit’s main function is to capture material from landslides and rockfall, mitigating direct impacts to the DFS and DFW. Details of why this option evolved to include catch pits, as opposed to allowing the material to flow over the roof are contained in the DMRB Stage 2 Report. This was fundamentally due to the impact of how debris material and water moved across the structure, particularly with respect to the impact this may have on the resilience of the structure, downstream slope stability and water environment.

The DFS and catch pit is a bespoke solution for the proposed scheme, which has the complexity of landslides and rockfalls as well as managing numerous watercourses across the hillside. Given the unique challenges of the proposed scheme, it is recognised that there is no equivalent structure in the UK. Our technical advisors AtkinsRéalis WSP Joint Venture, have structural specialists, using their expertise and knowledge of other similar international structures (mainly across Europe) to benefit the ongoing design and development of the scheme.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 066

To whom it may concern

As a long-term resident of Dunoon in Cowal (although my mailing address is currently [Redacted] while I look for a new house), and hence a concerned party as I use the route regularly, I examined the proposal for the A83 debris protection scheme as outlined in https://www.pinpointcloud.co.uk/A83restandbethankful/ with interest. I was both perplexed and horrified at the proposal, and am writing to object to it. I have been an advocate of an Alps-style protective tunnel/shelter solution from the outset. However, the bizarre solution proposed - the 'debris flow shelter' - seems designed to minimise benefits of such a tunnel while maximising both visual impact and costly maintenance. The visual impact, in one of the most scenically important high-amenity areas of the southern highlands, will be extraordinary. I can't fathom why the debris flow shelter is not designed for debris flow over the top, as is the case with every other such tunnel I can think of (most of them in far more difficult and geomorphologically active locations - and yes, I'm aware of the particular underlying geology of the hillslope the A83 is on, and its contribution to the longstanding problems with the A83). That it's not designed for this will require regular excavation of the ditch between the tunnel and the hillside - something that clearly seems planned for, given that the tunnel roof has a two-lane access road. This seems insane. As well as the visual impact and unnecessary ongoing maintenance, this will retain or even exacerbate the undercut hillslope which is part of the problem in the first place. I'm not speaking out of ignorance - I have a degree in which I studied exactly this kind of active hillslope (the [Redacted] was one of the examples we studied), the processes involved, and factors and processes to consider when building or attempting to build structures on such a hillslope. Working with the existing watercourses may require careful planning, but there is no inherent reason why these cannot either be diverted into culverts, or/and (at least overspill) channelled over the top of the structure.

Building the retaining wall into the hillslope (down to the bedrock, whose level can clearly be seen in the cuttings that have been created) and piling regolith behind it so debris flows over the top will provide a solution that will:

1. Be virtually maintenance-free in comparison

2. Be a far more stable solution, as it will work with processes in play on the hillslope, rather than trying to work against them (has nothing been learned from the (mis)-management of this problem so far?)

3. Be an order of magnitude less visually intrusive, because:

• (a) The tunnel can be built further into the slope, with about half the protruding structure visible compare to what's now proposed.

• (b) Regolith can be piled on the tunnel roof and allowed to vegetate naturally, ameliorating debris-flow in a holistic way rather than trying to erect hard barriers against it, and further reducing visual impact.

Perhaps protecting the farm in Glen Croe is part of the problem? If so, there is no reason ameliorative measures below and above the A83 shouldn't protect the farm. Particularly if - as a lot of people including myself have been begging for years - sheep and deer are taken off the hillslope so natural woodland re-establish and both stabilise the hillslope and reduce the severity of flash flooding, which would at the very least massively reduce the problems for the A83 by itself, greatly reducing the need for such drastic and costly measures in the first place. Even if this proposal was to go ahead, it needs some form of sympathetic landscaping and vegetation on the top, as the visual impact, within one of the key areas of a national park, is simply unacceptable. This will be an eyesore from the Cobbler and all around Glen Croe. Is the national park designation a joke?

As proposed, I'll be strongly objecting to the proposal.

Yours faithfully,

[Redacted]

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR) by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

Following the DMRB Route Options Assessment, the preferred route for the Long-Term Solution (LTS) was announced in June 2023. The key reasons to support the Debris Flow Shelter (DFS) as the preferred route option are that it achieves the scheme objectives of improving resilience and operational safety of the trunk road network. In addition to being the most favourable of all options across a broad range of environmental criteria, whilst having the greatest potential to be delivered quickly and providing the greatest opportunity to encourage sustainable travel.

Information on why the DFS and catch pit, on the line of the existing A83, have been identified as the preferred route for the proposed scheme can be found in the DMRB Stage 2 Report.

Providing the catch pit parallel to the DFS and Debris Flow Wall (DFW) also allows the landslip and rockfall material to be cleared up following an event. The clear up operation will include the material being excavated by a construction plant (e.g. excavators and dumper trucks) situated on the roof of the DFS. A maintenance access track at the southern end of the DFS provides access to the roof for maintenance operatives. This approach thereby allows traffic to continue running on the A83 during and after a landslide event.

The DFS and catch pit is a bespoke solution for the proposed scheme, which has the complexity of landslides and rockfalls as well as managing numerous watercourses across the hillside. Given the unique challenges of the proposed scheme, it is recognised that there is no equivalent structure in the UK. The Design Team have structural specialists, using their expertise and knowledge of other similar international structures (mainly across Europe) to benefit the ongoing design and development of the scheme.

A six-meter-wide catch pit is proposed to run parallel along the full length of the DFS and the DFW located at the northern end of the DFS. The catch pit’s main function is to capture material from landslides and rockfall, mitigating direct impacts to the DFS and DFW structures. Details of why this option evolved to include catch pits, as opposed to allowing the material to flow over the roof are contained in the DMRB Stage 2 Report. This was fundamentally due to the impact of how debris material and water moved across the structure, particularly with respect to the impact this may have on the resilience of the structure, downstream slope stability and water environment.

The proposed approach is to apply international practices similar to those used in Europe rather than apply tunnel or other similar standards in their entirety.

We are also progressing a programme to establish native woodland on the hillside above the road to help reduce the risk of landslides in the area whilst also enhancing local biodiversity and habitat connectivity. The scheme required Transport Scotland to acquire the necessary land before working in partnership with Forestry and Land Scotland to plant native trees of local provenance on the steep hillside. Deer fencing was installed in 2021, and tree planting commenced in March 2022. The planting is now complete, some 250,000 trees were planted, and longer-term monitoring and management operations are underway.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are aiming to mitigate both visual and landscape impacts wherever possible. This includes consideration of slanted or truss columns on the DFS and whether the roof of the structure can include some form of natural low-level planting or grass.

The most important aspect of this decision will be to ensure that the roof includes compressible fill material (e.g. similar in composition to sand) to act as a ‘cushion’ for the concrete structure during any potential landslide or boulder fall. The material on the roof also needs to be capable of supporting maintenance vehicles during the clear-up operation of material from the catch pit following a landslide event.

No decision has been made on the roof material and appearance and this will be confirmed in due course.

In addition, we are currently preparing an EIAR which includes specific assessments relating to both visual and landscape impacts and also takes account of the unique setting of the A83 within Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. This assessment will determine whether there are any significant impacts as a result of the proposed scheme, whilst also identifying specific mitigation measures relating to both the construction and operational phases.

To inform the design work and the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we have been engaging with the A83 Taskforce, Argyll and Bute Council, Forestry and Land Scotland as well as key environmental stakeholders including Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park Authority and bus operators.

We have regular engagement with Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park through the Environmental Steering Group and in relation to the scheme proposals including the car park layout.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 067

1) Hi, Whatever attempts have been made over the years, there has been one constant. The land slips.

The combination of loose rock, soil , raifall, ice, snow , and the gradient has caused constant erosion. When added to the weight of traffic, it has become impossible to build a safe road there.

2) Go back to the route of the military road. Reinforced stilts with the road running on top. Any debris from the hills above can be stemmed before it reaches the bottom of the glen.

3) 1.The military road seems to stay open and since it's been there it has become part of the landscape.

2.A more pleasing look could be achieved by designing arches where any stilts need built.

3.The existing A83 on the hillside above can be dug over and the landscape scar will disappear

4) The car park is a natural stopover with a viewpoint.

The snack bar serves it well.

I think a public toilet would help

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR) by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

A number of options were assessed including a viaduct as part of the DMRB Stage 2 Assessment however the key reasons to support the Debris Flow Shelter (DFS) as the preferred route option are that it achieves the scheme objectives of improving resilience and operational safety of the trunk road network. In addition to being the most favourable of all options across a broad range of environmental criteria, whilst having the greatest potential to be delivered quickly and providing the greatest opportunity to encourage sustainable travel.

Information on why the DFS and catch pit, on the line of the existing A83, have been identified as the preferred route for the proposed scheme can be found in the DMRB Stage 2 Report.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are aiming to mitigate both visual and landscape impacts wherever possible. This includes consideration of slanted or truss columns on the DFS and whether the roof of the structure can include some form of natural low-level planting or grass.

In addition, we are currently preparing an EIAR which includes specific assessments relating to both visual and landscape impacts. This assessment will determine whether there are any significant impacts as a result of the proposed scheme, whilst also identifying specific mitigation measures relating to both the construction and operational phases.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 068

3) Medium Term Solution, Long Term Solution, how many solutions does it take. How many years, how many consultations, how much taxpayers' money spent on consultations? Too much procrastination, no effective result. Surely it's time to cease consultations and surveys and get on with fixing the problem. Bearing in mind, there are just two vehicular routes onto the Cowal peninsular, the A815 via the A83 (primary route from the west and north) or the McInroys Point / Hunters Quay ferry (primary route for mainly light vehicles from the south and east), means the A83 is a vital artery for the businesses and communities on the peninsular. That is in such a parlous state is a sad reflection on all those involved in supposedly maintaining it.

4) The existing car park was satisfactory, could potentially be enlarged to maximise tourist potential, in which case more provision to accommodate them will be necessary, i.e. toilets, permanent refreshment facilities (including facilities for lorry drivers), etc. But concentration on fixing the road for the benefit of residents, businesses and visitors should be the primary consideration.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

We recognise that the timescales for developing an alternative to the current route and finding a long-term solution are frustrating for the local community. However, this scheme is technically challenging, and the landscape is dynamic, so it is vital we understand the terrain we are working in, in order to develop a suitable solution of the correct standard in the correct place.

Following design and assessment work, a Debris Flow Shelter (DFS) was announced on 2 June 2023 as the preferred option for the Long-Term Solution (LTS). This option involves constructing a DFS over a length of approximately 1.4km with an additional 180m of catch pit and protection wall to protect the road and road users from future debris flow events. The identification of the preferred route option through Glen Croe is a very important milestone in finding a solution to this long-standing problem.

The next step for the permanent solution, which is the detailed development and assessment of the preferred option, is progressing at pace and will conclude with the publication of draft Orders for comment, expected by the end of this year.

The Scottish Government is duty bound to properly follow the correct statutory procedures which rightly include the opportunity for local communities to input and have any objections received resolved appropriately.

Construction of the scheme can only commence once the statutory process is complete, and a main works contractor is appointed.

As part of the £87 million invested in the maintenance of the A83 since 2007, over £16 million has been invested in landslide mitigation works at the Rest and Be Thankful, to help keep Argyll open for business by reducing the impact of landslides on the road.

The key reasons to support the DFS as the preferred route option are that it achieves the scheme objectives of improving resilience and operational safety of the trunk road network. In addition, it is the most favourable of all options across a broad range of environmental criteria, whilst having the greatest potential to be delivered quickly and providing the greatest opportunity to encourage sustainable travel.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 069

1) This looks like a design that will solve the problem, if the catch pit works and the foundations are secure enough. It should have been done years ago.

3) The fit of the current design is adequate, although more planting on top would be good.

Our interaction is mainly about the ability to traverse the pass efficiently en route from central belt to Argyll and he visual enjoyment of the dramatic scenery

4) The design looks good

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR) by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

The six-metre-wide catch pit is proposed to run parallel to the DFS and the Debris Flow Protection Wall (DFW). The catch pit’s main function is to capture material from landslides and rockfall, mitigating direct impacts to the DFS and DFW. A piled foundation solution is proposed for the DFS and associated catch pit to ensure that they have a secure fixing to the rock head.

Providing the catch pit parallel to the DFS and DFW also allows the landslip and rockfall material to be cleared up following an event. The clear up operation will include the material being excavated by a construction plant situated on the roof of the DFS. This approach thereby allows traffic to continue running on the A83 during and after a landslide event.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are aiming to mitigate both visual and landscape impacts wherever possible. This includes consideration of slanted or truss columns on the DFS and whether the roof of the structure can include some form of natural low-level planting or grass.

We have been engaging with Argyll and Bute Council, Forestry and Land Scotland, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park as well as bus operators in relation to the possibility of various opportunities including toilets at the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint. Consideration of such facilities are under review as part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 070

1) Finally, a long term solution that is feasible. Above the proposed tunnel, waste tyres can be used instead of filling material to allow the bounce of rocks when they fall. This is a winwin sustable solution.

4) EV charging points

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

Providing the catch pit parallel to the DFS and DFW also allows the landslip and rockfall material to be cleared up following an event. The clear up operation will include the material being excavated by a construction plant situated on the roof of the DFS. This approach thereby allows traffic to continue running on the A83 during and after a landslide event.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are considering what materials can be used on the roof of the DFS. The most important aspect of this decision will be to ensure that the roof includes compressible fill material (e.g. similar in composition to sand) in order to act as a cushion for the concrete structure during any potential landslide or boulder fall. The material on the roof also needs to be capable of supporting maintenance vehicles during the clear-up operation of material from the catch pit following a landslide event.

We have been engaging with Argyll and Bute Council, Forestry and Land Scotland, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park as well as bus operators in relation to the possibility of various opportunities at the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint. Consideration of facilities are under review as part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment and will be finalised in due course.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 071

1) Should be integrated into the hill. The design is ugly and seems likely to be damaged by rock fall. Overall an ugly and poor design.

2) I didnt see anything about a medium term solution?

3) It should be a tunnel that is fully integrated into the hillside. It looks like an ugly 1960s car park.

4) The design looks over complicated, Its a car park, it should be simple.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

The DMRB Stage 2 Options Assessment work considered a range of environmental, engineering, traffic and economic factors and also considered the performance against the national and regional objectives. It also considered disruption to road users during construction, more information can be found in the DMRB Stage 2 Report.

Information on why the DFS and catch pit, on the line of the existing A83, have been identified as the preferred route for the proposed scheme can be found in the DMRB Stage 2 Report.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are considering what materials can be used on the roof of the DFS.

The DFS and catch pit is a bespoke solution for the proposed scheme, which has the complexity of landslides and rockfalls as well as managing numerous watercourses across the hillside. Providing the catch pit parallel to the DFS and Debris Flow Wall also allows the landslip and rockfall material to be cleared up following an event. The DFS has been developed to integrate into the existing hillside as much as possible while also considering the operational challenges of managing a landslide event.

The Medium-Term Solution (MTS) as presented within the information boards at the public engagement events consists of improvements to the existing Old Military Road (OMR) through the Glen Croe corridor to make it a more resilient diversion route until the Long-Term Solution (LTS) is in place. These improvements will improve the resilience of the diversion route, reduce journey times, are the quickest to implement, are of relatively lower cost and would have the least impact overall across the range of criteria assessed of the medium-term options considered.

All the materials presented at the public engagement events can be found on the A83 Story Map and Transport Scotland Website.

Design development of the car park layout as well as the need to accommodate a temporary diversion route via the OMR is ongoing and will be finalised in the coming months.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 072

1) The large amount of concrete and will spoil the natural landscape and from the plans, there’s no planting or attempt to lessen the impact of ruining this landscape. The long term solution also is only a sticking plaster as the majority of slides recently have been further up the road. No matter what is done here it will not solve the access problem unless a lot more is done.

2) The OMR solution is better however, it should be automated. The traffic management team are unreliable and are slow to act.

3) The structure should be as invisible as possible.

Planting should be the highest priority of the plan.

Every effort should be made to ensure light pollution from the shelter is as minimum as possible.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

The key reasons to support the Debris Flow Shelter (DFS) as the preferred route option for the Long-Term Solution (LTS) are that it achieves the scheme objectives of improving resilience and operational safety of the trunk road network. In addition to being the most favourable of all options across a broad range of environmental criteria, whilst having the greatest potential to be delivered quickly and providing the greatest opportunity to encourage sustainable travel.

Information on why the DFS and catch pit, on the line of the existing A83, have been identified as the preferred route for the proposed scheme can be found in the DMRB Stage 2 Report.

As the LTS is predominantly on the existing A83 road, there will be a requirement for temporary traffic management for road users during the full construction period, currently estimated to be three to four years.

Full details of the assessment to support the selection of the preferred option for the MTS can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are aiming to mitigate both visual and landscape impacts wherever possible. This includes consideration of slanted or truss columns on the debris flow shelter and whether the roof of the structure can include some form of natural low-level planting or grass and try and integrate it into the surrounding environment as much as possible.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are undertaking a lighting assessment in order to better understand what daytime and night-time lighting is required within the structure. This takes account of the potential “strobe” effect from the DFS columns and the change in light on both entry and exit from the structure. Furthermore, the assessment works have considered the potential implications of light pollution and explored options on how this can be mitigated.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 073

Email 1: Sir

As you will know the Scottish Government requires ALL significant transport expenditures to follow the Scottish Transport Analysis Guidance (STAG) methodology. I should be grateful if you could provide the Stage Reports produced for the earlier stages of STAG. In particular I should like to see the sections of the report based around the Place Principle and understanding the needs and desires of the local people.

[Redacted]

Email 2: 1. Please explain why you are using the DMRB methodology rather than the legally required STAG methodology. One significant difference you may have missed is the requirement to explain why options have been rejected. Specifically you cannot reject an option on cost grounds until you have an appropriate design to cost. The problem we have with the A82 proposal is that the rejection of the High route was based purely on guesses as to cost which turned out to be in flat contradiction to the only design available . I should be grateful for details of the alternative tunnel or viaduct options for the A83 as well as this one and how they were costed.

2. Do you have any examples from any other mountainous areas (Norway, Alps) of a “debris shelter plus catchpit” design? Your presentation identifies numerous and potentially very expensive problems of this design not least being how you clear the areas behind the shelters after a fall. How did you get the original estimates?

3. Your presentation talks of Active Travel. Where is this identified? I assume one option is to use the OMR for active travel since it is both a ROW and Core Path. But for reasons unknown TfS currently insists on illegally keeping gates locked against cyclists. This needs to be sorted now if your future plans are to be believed.

4. Finally, because of the projected Benefit Cost Ratio and the current squeeze, I do understand the reason for postponing the very heavy expenditure required for a Modern Scottish Trunk Road. However, if there is to be a huge expenditure in the long term it should be for a long-term solution. I fear the “debris shelter plus catchpit” is not that and will cause endless traffic congestion as it is being built. Hopefully a proper appraisal will be undertaken of viaduct, tunnel and hillside when there is some feasible chance of construction.

[Redacted]

Email 3: Please could you explain the term "where relevant". As an example the failure to use STAG could be deemed irrelevant to you but is absolutely central to me as it requires you to properly design and cost both your "shelter plus" proposal and alternatives. Specifically you need to identify the huge costs and delays associated with trying to rebuild a road whilst functioning compared to e.g. building a viaduct

[Redacted]

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

We can confirm that the development and assessment of the preferred route for the A83 Rest and Be Thankful scheme was undertaken by Transport Scotland in alignment with the principles of the Scottish Transport Appraisal Guidance (STAG) and the DMRB.

The A83 scheme was identified as a priority for the Scottish Government and is a key recommendation in Strategic Transport Projects Review 2 (STPR2). Details of the overarching transport appraisal that supported the review, that was undertaken in line with STAG, can be found at STPR2. Specifically, the outputs of the detailed transport apprasial for the A83 can be found at Recommendation 29 – Access to Argyll. I would further note that STPR2 provides a robust Strategic Case for investment and is a 20-year plan of both essential and transformational infrastructure, which will help us meet our aims of protecting our climate and improving lives.

We can advise in respect to your specific query on the Place Principle consideration and reference to this has been made to this within the Preliminary Engineering Services and Strategic Environmental Assessment prepared as part of the DMRB Stage 1 Assessment. Furthermore, as part of subsequent DMRB assessment stages, collaboration and community involvement have helped to inform the proposed scheme design development. The increased understanding from members of the public, transport providers and stakeholders to aspects such as the improvements to the Rest and Be Thankful viewpoint car park and bus stop as well as active travel provisions are examples which have benefitted from a collaborative input. The output from these will be encompassed within the DMRB Stage 3 Assessment.

Subsequent landslide measures have seen the opening of the Old Military Road (OMR) as a diversion route when the A83 is closed, installation of nets, catch pits and improvements to drainage at this location. Construction of an additional roadside catch pit at the Rest and Be Thankful began in 2021 and was completed in June 2023. This £3.4 million scheme provides capacity to collect an additional 1,800 tonnes of debris flow from landslides, in addition to the 1,900-tonne capacity provided by the four other catch pits.

On 3 December 2020, the then Cabinet Secretary announced that construction was to start immediately on a new 175m landslide barrier adjacent to the local diversion to help bolster the resilience of this route. Work was completed in January 2021. More information can be found on the BEAR Scotland website.

In August 2020, Jacobs Aecom were commissioned by Transport Scotland to undertake a Strategic Environmental Assessment and provide Preliminary Engineering Support Services in the assessment of route corridor options to improve access to Argyll and Bute including the A83 Trunk Road.

A preliminary assessment of all 11 route corridor options for improving access to Argyll and Bute and identifying a Long-Term Solution (LTS) to the ongoing problems at the Rest and Be Thankful has been completed and a Preliminary Assessment Report published in March 2021.

Following this report, including over 650 responses to the public consultation on the scheme, the then Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Infrastructure and Connectivity announced a preferred route corridor on 18 March 2021 – this is Route Corridor 1 through Glen Croe. A copy of the report can be found here: Preliminary Assessment Report - March 2021 - A83 Access to Argyll and Bute | Transport Scotland.

Atkins Réalis WSP Joint Venture (AWJV) were appointed by Transport Scotland in September 2022 to progress both the Medium-Term Solution (MTS) and the permanent LTS to the issues faced at the Rest and Be Thankful. In December 2022 the then Minister for Transport announced the preferred option for the MTS to improve the operation, safety and resilience when used as the diversion route. We are developing these interventions at pace through the appropriate statutory consents.

In June 2023 the then Minister for Transport announced the preferred route for the permanent, LTS which consists of a Debris Flow Shelter (DFS) and catch pit on the line of the existing A83. This announcement marked a major milestone in the scheme. A copy of the DMRB Stage 2 Assessment Report can be found here: Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) stage two route options assessment report - A83 Access to Argyll and Bute | Transport Scotland.

The DMRB Stage 2 process considered a comparative assessment of principally five options which included various combinations of viaducts, tunnels and debris flow shelters. Following the comparative process the DFS and catch pit was identified as the preferred option. Overall, it performed better across the engineering, environment, traffic and economic criteria compared to the other options assessed.

The key reasons to support the DFS as the preferred route option are that it achieves the scheme objectives by improving the resilience and operational safety of the trunk road network. In addition to being the most favourable of all options across a broad range of environmental criteria, whilst having the greatest potential to be delivered quickly and providing the greatest opportunity to encourage sustainable travel.

Full details of the DMRB Stage 2 Assessment which led to the preferred option, cost information and breakdown, as well as details of all the options can be found using the link provided above or on the A83 Story Map – Road Alignment Design Development - Additional Information (arcgis.com).

The current estimated cost for the permanent, long-term solution is between £405 million and £470 million at Q1 2023 prices. At this stage, we present a cost estimate range as there remain a number of unknowns (such as ground conditions), so as we gather more information and develop the design in greater detail during the DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we will be able to more accurately estimate the cost of the proposed scheme.

We are currently developing the proposed scheme design to incorporate sustainable travel facilities including bus, walking, cycling, wheeling and horse-riding facilities, wherever possible. This includes preparation of a DMRB Walking, Cycling and Horse-Riding Assessment (WCHAR).

Opportunities to utilise the OMR and other existing routes are being considered as part of this assessment. In relation to your comment regarding locked gates on the OMR, Transport Scotland does not own this road, it is a privately owned road, and the surrounding land is part of a working farm.

We are currently considering opportunities for an active travel link from the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint to the forestry tracks on the lower slopes of Ben Donich, to the west of the OMR, as identified on the information boards displayed at the engagement events.

The preferred route at the A83 has been identified through the DMRB Assessment process to provide a robust scheme which provides the following key benefits:

• Improved resilience and operational safety of the trunk road network by reducing the impact of disruption for travel to, from and between Argyll and Bute and the Central Belt of Scotland

• The greatest potential to be delivered quickly

• Most favourable performance across a broad range of environmental criteria, including cultural heritage, visual, population and human health, climate, and materials and waste

• The greatest opportunity to encourage sustainable travel

The MTS, announced in December 2022, which is a proportionate programme of improvements to the OMR will not only improve its safety and resilience as a diversion route, but also improve the operation by extending the length of two-way operation, reducing journey times. The two-way operation will cover the southern end of the OMR only, due to the topography and tight bends at the northern end this will remain single lane.

The MTS Options Assessment Report can be found using the following link: Medium term strategy - Options assessment report - January 2023 - A83 Access to Argyll and Bute | Transport Scotland.

It is noted that a separate response on 1 May 2024 was provided to clarify your query in relation to the term “where relevant” within our initial email acknowledgment.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 074

1) This sort of thing is used widely in Europe mainly to deal with large avalanche areas; they work very well and this solution has been too long in coming to The Rest & Be Thankful.

Is the Catch Pit accessible should the pit fill up with any debris from a slide?

Would this be done from the roof of the shelter, if so is it strong enough to take the diggers and trucks required to keep the Catch Pit clean and so able to do the job it is designed for?

Would the walk way down the side of the Debris Flow Shelter be accessible by the general public, even part of the way with a view point?

2) Looks good, needs to be done as the building of the Debris Flow Shelter will no doubt take some time to be completed. Having work on the roads around this area I'm aware of how crucial it is to have a consistent access to and from for deliveries, commuters and of course income (Tourists).

3) I think great engineering structures should be celebrated and done more, at the end of the day without such a structure like the Debris Flow Shelter the landscape at the Rest will just become a large pile of earth at the bottom, spread all over the Old Military Road. I have seen many such structures in Europe in the mountain areas and they blend in well with minimal visual impact considering their size yet allow travel to and from such areas so they can still be enjoyed by many.

I drive this road a few times a year for work and to visit relatives, important to have good roads.

I walk the hills in and around the area, important to have minimal visual impact on the beautiful scenery.

I am connected to the area and want Tourism and everyday supplies and Business to be able to continue with minimal obstruction.

4) I think the existing car park is good and has enough space.

Toilets, benches and support for the mobile food van, sadly the upkeep of Toilets will possibly make them not viable.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR) by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

Information on why the DFS and catch pit, on the line of the existing A83, have been identified as the preferred route for the proposed scheme can be found in the DMRB Stage 2 Report.

The walkway which will sit alongside the DFS will be used for the purposes of maintenance access and a pedestrian evacuation route in the event of an emergency within the DFS. The walkway is not intended to be used as a viewpoint, and pedestrians will not be permitted to use the walkway unless in an emergency situation.

As the Long-Term Solution (LTS) is predominantly on the line of the existing A83 road, there will be a requirement for temporary traffic management for road users during the full construction period, currently estimated to be three to four years.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are aiming to mitigate both visual and landscape impacts wherever possible. This includes consideration of slanted or truss columns on the DFS and whether the roof of the structure can include some form of natural low-level planting or grass.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 075

1) The long term solution to building this bridge/tunnel is a welcome one. My journeys along the a83 have never been inconvenienced by a landslide. I have been very fortunate not to have to make the huge detour or otherwise.

However, I am surprised at the design of the bridge/tunnel.

I expected an arched tunnel/bridge which allowed landslide/debris to fall over it in effect making it a tunnel. That would allow the slope to eventually look more natural from the outside. Having 4 lanes would potentially allow passing vehicles if their was a breakdown or heaven forbid an accident.

2) The medium sounds thought through, but I'd expect more careful attention to drain away as part of the flood prevention, perhaps widening and deepening the burn even creating new burn flows down.

3) It would be better if the tunnel/bridge was allowed to evolve into something looking more natural hence my thoughts on the tunnel arched to allow the debris to fall over it and allow the landslide to form a more natural look in the decade to come.

The walls need to be well reinforced to hold the potential weight to allow people the confidence to drive through.

4) a) Carpark for the shape of the proposal seems fair enough. But I can't see the need if you allowed the potential landslide to go over the bridge/tunnel naturally.

b) Having a car park I'd expect there to be a Café/Rest Room as I'm sure tour operators and holidaying folks would come to view

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR) by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

Information on why the Debris Flow Structure (DFS) and catch pit, on the line of the existing A83, have been identified as the preferred route for the proposed scheme can be found in the DMRB Stage 2 Report.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are considering in detail what procedures need to be in place within the DFS in the event of a breakdown, fire or accident.

With respect to the road carriageway standard within the DFS, it is noted that based on traffic volumes and taking account of operational requirements a single carriageway with two lanes is proposed. This is based on a 9.3m wide carriageway within the DFS, which will include two 3.65m wide lanes and 1m hardstrips with 2.5m wide verges. This road width is wider than the existing A83 and will aid the passing of slow-moving road users.

The Medium-Term Solution (MTS), announced in December 2022, is a proportionate programme of improvements to the OMR which will not only improve its safety and resilience as a diversion route, but also improve the operation by extending the length of two-way operation, reducing journey times. Environmental factors, such as water course crossings and flooding have been taken into account in the design development of the MTS scheme and are subject to ongoing assessment.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are aiming to mitigate both visual and landscape impacts wherever possible. This includes consideration of slanted or truss columns on the DFS and whether the roof of the structure can include some form of natural low-level planting or grass.

We have been engaging with Argyll and Bute Council, Forestry and Land Scotland, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park as well as bus operators in relation to the possibility of various opportunities including toilets at the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint. Consideration of such facilities are under review as part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 076

1) Good overall plan. Will the old military road be kept in service for emergencies? Roof planted for wildlife? Lights in tunnel powered by solar panels on roof?

2) Close road to allow work to start and use old military road

3) Living roof would help insect/ birds. Wildlife tunnel or bridge to help avoid animal deaths on road. Construction material choices will help tunnel blend into landscape.

4) Good plan

I’ve not stopped at car park in the past.

Toilets would be a welcome addition. Composting would avoid any plumbing. Solar lighting etc save on energy costs.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR) by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are considering in detail what procedures need to be in place within the Debris Flow Shelter (DFS) in the event of an emergency incident.

Going forward, we will continue to develop proposals in line with the emerging design and in accordance with relevant design standards and legislation. This will include consideration of how to prevent, detect and raise awareness of incidents within the DFS. Other aspects under ongoing investigation include both fire and smoke modelling work and a lighting assessment, to determine what daytime, night-time and emergency lighting is required within the structure including options for power supply.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are aiming to mitigate both visual and landscape impacts wherever possible. This includes consideration of slanted or truss columns on the DFS and whether the roof of the structure can include some form of natural low-level planting or grass and try and integrate it into the surrounding environment as much as possible.

As part of the DMRB Stage 3 Assessment mammal permeability on the A83 is being investigated and it is recognised that it is likely that mammals currently follow the topography of the A83 and that this would continue after completion of the DFS. As such, consideration has been given to how mammals could interact and may access the roof of the DFS and the associated catchpit. Furthermore, consideration is being given to the layout of fencing, kerbing and potential deer orcattle grids as well as how amphibians could interact with the drainage system. This work is ongoing, and it is recognised that careful design is required to avoid wildlife road traffic casualties wherever possible.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 077

1) Why is shelter so complex, with catchment pit etc?

Why not roof slope to outside to allow matter to roll over?

What provision is made for cycling? Maybe maintain the old road in good condition as cycle route?

4) Cycle parking. Cafe.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

Providing the catch pit parallel to the DFS and Debris Flow Wall also allows the landslip and rockfall material to be cleared up following an event. The clear up operation will include the material being excavated by a construction plant (e.g. excavators and dumper trucks) situated on the roof of the DFS. A maintenance access track at the southern end of the DFS provides access to the roof for maintenance operatives. This approach thereby allows traffic to continue running on the A83 during and after a landslide event.

Details of why this option evolved to include catch pits, as opposed to allowing the material to flow over the roof are contained in the DMRB Stage 2 Report. This was fundamentally due to the impact of how debris material and water moved across the structure, particularly with respect to the impact this may have on the resilience of the structure, downstream slope stability and water environment.

Information on why the DFS and catch pit, on the line of the existing A83, have been identified as the preferred route for the proposed scheme can be found in the DMRB Stage 2 Report.

Cyclists will be able to travel through the DFS on the existing road similar to the rest of the A83 Trunk Road. There will be a walkway alongside the DFS for maintenance and evacuation purposes however it will not be open to pedestrians or cyclists as there is no connecting cycle path or walkway currently on the A83.

We are also currently considering opportunities for an active travel link from the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint to the forestry tracks on the lower slopes of Ben Donich, to the west of the OMR, as identified on the information boards displayed at the engagement events.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 078

1) It looks a fantastic solution to a big issue. Zero complaints from me.

2) Again, if it increases safety and keeps traffic moving then it can only be to Scotland's advantage. God only knows why the [Redacted] are using it as an excuse to slate the [Redacted].

3) I think the contrast of a brilliantly modern build within the wild and ancient landscape will be striking in all the right ways and don't necessarily think it should be completely hidden.

I pass this way regularly and always stop at the top to take in that marvellous view. Continuing to do so is No.1 in my top ways to interact with that landscape. My No.2 is obviously getting from A to B. And lastly, No.3 is simply getting there safely!

Actually quite excited about seeing this project happen in the flesh! How wonderfully Alpine it all feels. I love it!

4) A) Love this car park and that superb view. Feels right. B) Interactive info situated here relating to the build would be interesting.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

Thank you for your positive comments on the preferred route for a permanent solution to the challenges of landslides at the Rest and Be Thankful.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 079

1) I am in favour

2) I am in favour

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme

A83RABT 080

1) It seems this solution is simply to defend the road from the hill. Something that will cost again and again given the nature of the slides. Given the scale of the solution including the constant inspection and repair would it not be easier to reroute the road to the other side (west side) of the Croe Water allowing for the rewilding of the east side and a safer open road.

2) This seems a reasonable solution while work is being carried out although would not be needed if the road was being rerouted on the other side of the valley.

3) I think it fits the landscape the best it probably could do without tunnelling. I have no issues with how the long term solution looks.

4) Any changes to increase the capacity are a positive.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR) by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

There were five options considered, including the Green Option on the western slope of the Glen, as part of the DMRB Stage 2 Assessment however the key reasons to support the Debris Flow Shelter (DFS) as the preferred route option are that it achieves the scheme objectives of improving resilience and operational safety of the trunk road network. In addition to being the most favourable of all options across a broad range of environmental criteria, whilst having the greatest potential to be delivered quickly and providing the greatest opportunity to encourage sustainable travel.

Information on why the DFS and catch pit, on the line of the existing A83, have been identified as the preferred route for the proposed scheme can be found in the DMRB Stage 2 Report.

The Medium-Term Solution (MTS), announced in December 2022, is a proportionate programme of improvements to the Old Military Road (OMR) and will not only improve its safety and resilience as a diversion route, but also improve the operation by extending the length of two-way operation, reducing the journey times.

The improvements to the OMR as part of the MTS will deliver a safe, proportionate and more resilient diversion route when the A83 is closed. The interventions will be in place prior to the construction of the Long-Term Solution (LTS) and reduce disruption to road users during the construction of the DFS.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are aiming to mitigate both visual and landscape impacts wherever possible. This includes consideration of slanted or truss columns on the DFS and whether the roof of the structure can include some form of natural low-level planting or grass.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 081

1) I'm assuming that the engineering of the scheme will be suitable to contain debris flows for years to come. So just two points which I was considering: 1. Will traffic speed be controlled by a suitable limit and speed camers? 2. Is there any provision for cyclists, or will they be required to use the Old Miltary by pass road (would seem to be a sensible idea).

3) The images don't look good, but the structure will weather with time and be less obtrusive. I'm usually just passing through so from the road the impact is visually no more than, say, a long road bridge.

4) I rarely use the existing car park but the proposed car park appears rather small in view of the numbers vehicles that are likely to use it.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR) by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

The national speed limit for trunk roads will apply to vehicles travelling in the Debris Flow Shelter (DFS) similar to the rest of the A83 Trunk Road. It is not proposed to install speed cameras within the DFS.

Cyclists will be able to travel through the DFS on the existing road similar to the rest of the A83 Trunk Road. There will be a walkway alongside the DFS for maintenance and evacuation purposes however it will not be open to pedestrians or cyclists as there is no connecting cycle path or walkway currently on the A83.

With regards to passing cyclists or slow-moving road users in the DFS, it is important to note that the Highway Code states that vehicles are allowed to cross a solid white line where there are stationary or slow-moving road users including cyclists, horse riders or maintenance vehicles travelling at 10mph or less, where it is safe to do so. This applies to cyclists travelling in the DFS and along the rest of the A83 Trunk Road. Additionally, the road within the DFS will be 9.3m wide, will include two 3.65m lanes and 1m hardstrips with 2.5m wide verges. This road width is wider than the existing A83 and will aid the passing of slow-moving road users.

Opportunities to utilise the OMR and other existing routes are being considered as part of this assessment.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are aiming to mitigate both visual and landscape impacts wherever possible. This includes consideration of slanted or truss columns on the DFS and whether the roof of the structure can include some form of natural low-level planting or grass to try and integrate it into the surrounding environment as much as possible.

We have been engaging with Argyll and Bute Council, Forestry and Land Scotland, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park as well as bus operators in relation to the possibility of various opportunities at the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint. Consideration of facilities are under review as part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment and will be finalised in due course.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 082

1) This is a huge and ambitious project but one which is essential as a long term and permanent solution to the landslide problem. The investment, expensive as it undoubtedly will be, can only pay back enormously over the future years of safe driving and keeping the route open and functioning. I’m in full support of the proposal.

2) The OMR already exists, keeping new build to a minimum. If it was deemed good enough for military planners of old then it can surely be successfully deployed for modern use as a diversion while the longterm goal is achieved.

3) Scotlands rural landscape is frequently punctuated with manmade structures, from viaducts to power lines and if done thoughtfully can be made to be aesthetic landmarks as well as practical structures.

For me what is important is the planting of trees, not just for greenery, but also to help bind the land.

Important, too, is not to obscure the views across Glen Croe from the covered road. Also important is the provision of passing/parking places both on the hillside and at the two ends of the route.

4) I have never found the car park to be full, so provision of spaces I don’t think needs improvement. What I’d like to see is facilities for enjoying the views from the top rest, being thankful indeed for some benches facing the glen and some facing the loch at the other side. The provision of a hot food retailer has always been welcome when it has been in place, and seasonal franchise for a coffee and burger bar in the April to October months would be a serous attraction. Information boards would be helpful.

The plans as shown looks well thought out and could accommodate the needs and wishes of travellers without over disruption of the land area at the Rest.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR) by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

The Medium-Term Solution (MTS) as presented at the public engagement events consists of improvements to the existing Old Military Road (OMR) through the Glen Croe corridor to make it a more resilient diversion route until the Long-Term Solution (LTS) is in place. These improvements will improve the resilience of the diversion route, reduce journey times, are the quickest to implement, are of relatively lower cost and would have the least impacts overall across the range of criteria assessed of the medium-term options considered.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are aiming to mitigate both visual and landscape impacts wherever possible. This includes consideration of slanted or truss columns on the Debris Flow Shelter (DFS) and whether the roof of the structure can include some form of natural low-level planting or grass to try and integrate it into the surrounding environment as much as possible.

We have been engaging with Argyll and Bute Council, Forestry and Land Scotland, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park as well as bus operators in relation to the possibility of various opportunities at the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint. Consideration of facilities are under review as part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment and will be finalised in due course.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 083

1) Should have full provision for bikes and pedestrians

2) How will pedestrians get through? Or Bikes? This completely cuts off access to the top of glen croe?

4) Some bike racks would be nice tbh.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

Cyclists will be able to travel through the Debris Flow Shelter (DFS) on the existing road similar to the rest of the A83 Trunk Road. There will be a walkway alongside the DFS for maintenance and evacuation purposes however it will not be open to pedestrians or cyclists as there is no connecting cycle path or walkway currently on the A83.

With regards to passing cyclists or slow-moving road users in the DFS, it is important to note that the Highway Code states that vehicles are allowed to cross a solid white line where there are stationary or slow-moving road users including cyclists, horse riders or maintenance vehicles travelling at 10mph or less, where it is safe to do so. This applies to cyclists travelling in the DFS and along the rest of the A83 Trunk Road. Additionally, the road within the DFS will be 9.3m wide, will include two 3.65m lanes and 1m hardstrips with 2.5m wide verges. This road width is wider than the existing A83 and will aid the passing of slow-moving road users.

We are aware of the paths to the east of the A83 which accesses the Arrochar Alps, and the scheme will aim to ensure no barriers are put in place which inhibit access to existing routes.

We have been engaging with Argyll and Bute Council, Forestry and Land Scotland, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park as well as bus operators in relation to the possibility of various opportunities at the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint. Consideration of facilities are under review as part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment and will be finalised in due course.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 084

1) NOand NO to your solution. I have a solution that has NEVER been proposed and here it is and solves ALL the issues in one. I propose that a road traffic bridge is built. It is to be built in the style of the Milau bridge and is for traffic only, no pedestrians.

It is to be run close and parallel in the same direction over and above the Old Military Road on the valley floor below the main road. Its launch from the Oban Argyll end is to be the car park area at top end of the Rest and Be Thankful and feed as required a) onto the bridge itself (a safe and suitable height of the traffic bridge to be decided by the structural team ) b) other route to farm land etc. As I said NO general pedestrian/cycle crossing the bridge as they can use the current Old Military Road.

Like the Milau - Permission may be granted once a year and only once for a regulated charity marathon event run across the bridge.

The solution I have proposed should be good for 120 years.

It solves the ECO crowd complaints.

Farmers below may continue relatively undisturbed.

Scotland has an excellent reputation for bridge building

Scotland delivered the Queensferry before time and below budge as far as I remember.

Old Military Road may still be used

Historical and cultural significance maintained by the building of and R+ B Bridge.

When the R+B hillside does eventually landslip massively down into the valley below (and it will) taking half the hill with it and tons and tons of scree, rock , boulders,mud,debris and 20 ton rocks : the bridge will remain if built a) far enough out landslip pathway and of substantial enough material without threat to life and still be able to be used . A solution we all want.

It will bring employment to the area.

There will be significant and quick resolution of traffic safety concerns.

In the same way as the Milau opened up areas in France,there will be improved immediate economic value to the depopulated Highlands and Western Coastal areas of Scotland.

It is my opinion and I am in no doubt that it could become an iconic world renowned bridge. One that Scotland could be proud of. One that people will travel Globally to travel over.

IYou have the solution now. What you do with it is your decision. You can call me anytime to discuss , you have my number and address.

I am [Redacted] and I have a creative pragmatic solution driven background from having been a Project Manager /Systems analyst/designer engineer.

I am happy to draw a diagram of what this may look like but I'm sure you have a graphics designer who can rustle you up a 'picture' of a 'Mini- Milau' running above the valley floor near to the Old Military Road from a run-in launch point at carpark or near to a taper point past the danger slip areas of the hillside in the distance.

Good Luck. [Redacted].

3) Safety, Functional useability Reliability

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

A number of options, including a viaduct option similar to what you suggest, were considered as part of the DMRB Stage 2 Assessment. Further detail on the viaduct option can be found in the DMRB Stage 2 Report. The key reasons to support the Debris Flow Shelter (DFS) as the preferred route option is that it achieves the scheme objectives of improving resilience and operational safety of the trunk road network. In addition to being the most favourable of all options across a broad range of environmental criteria, whilst having the greatest potential to be delivered quickly and providing the greatest opportunity to encourage sustainable travel.

Information on why the DFS and catch pit, on the line of the existing A83, have been identified as the preferred route for the proposed scheme as well as background information on the viaduct option (referenced yellow option) can be found in the DMRB Stage 2 Report.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 085

1) Long and short term ideas seem to be ok, it’s only the design I feel is flawed. As someone who travels it fairly regularly the improvements to the road itself will be good. Maybe think about working with [Redacted] and electrical providers and when building the road have channels put in under the road that can accommodate lines for those providers as well. I’m happy to help with the design myself.

Especially the angle of the ceiling.

2) Long and short term ideas seem to be ok, it’s only the design I feel is flawed.

3) First answer is what I’m giving

4) Electric charging ports

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

Design work is being undertaken in accordance with the DMRB assessment process, which is used to develop and assess road projects. This is considered standard good practice and is used throughout the UK. The DMRB Stage 2 Options Assessment work considered a range of environmental, engineering, traffic and economic factors. It also considered the performance against the national and regional objectives and disruption to road users during construction, more information can be found in the DMRB Stage 2 Report.

It considered a comparative assessment of principally five options which consisted of viaducts, tunnels and a Debris Flow Shelter (DFS). Following the conclusion of the comparative assessment the DFS and adjacent catch pit was selected as the preferred option.

Information on why the DFS and catch pit, on the line of the existing A83, have been identified as the preferred route for the proposed scheme can be found in the DMRB Stage 2 Report.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 design development work, accommodating future provision of public utilities has been considered. We have engaged with utility companies including BT OpenReach as part of this work. In addition, any necessary diversion and protection works to utility apparatus are also being considered.

We have been engaging with Argyll and Bute Council, Forestry and Land Scotland, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park as well as bus operators in relation to the possibility of various opportunities at the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint. Consideration of facilities are under review as part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment and will be finalised in due course.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 086

1) Since the mediumterm solution incorporates making the old military road a more accessible road to be used during works on the A83, why not just make the OMR a duel lane road all the way through and have that as the final solution? You’re arranging flood protection, which was the biggest issue with the OMR, and so would it not be much less time consuming and much more cost effective to not create a debris shelter in order to use the A83 but instead improve the OMR and reroute the A83 along there.

2) See above.

3) The view of the landscape on all sides, which the debris shelter would obscure on the side of the hill but that’s less important than the timescale of 5+ years for this project to actually be completed, not to mention the hassle it will cause residents.

4) As long as the car park has enough space and the burger van has a spot, as this is employment for locals.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR) by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

Information on why the DFS and catch pit, on the line of the existing A83, have been identified as the preferred route for the proposed scheme can be found in the DMRB Stage 2 Report.

The MTS, announced in December 2022, which is a proportionate programme of improvements to the OMR will not only improve its safety and resilience as a diversion route, but also improve the operation by extending the length of two-way operation, reducing the journey times. The two-way operation will cover the southern end of the OMR only, due to the topography and tight bends at the northern end this will remain single lane.

Full details of the assessment to support the selection of the preferred option for the MTS can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are aiming to mitigate both visual and landscape impacts wherever possible. This includes consideration of slanted or truss columns on the DFS and whether the roof of the structure can include some form of natural low-level planting or grass to try and integrate it into the surrounding environment as much as possible.

We have been engaging with Argyll and Bute Council, Forestry and Land Scotland, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park as well as bus operators in relation to the possibility of various opportunities at the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint. Consideration of facilities are under review as part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment and will be finalised in due course.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 087

1) It should be build asap. Its shoud also provision a cycle path - theraod is being rebuilt anyway, so makes sense to include

2) Its not entirely clear what this is

3) It does not harm the aethetics at all. an interesting industrial design would enhance the view.

1. overall landscape view - from the road and looking at the road. The proposal fits wih this

2. safety for all concerned - the proposal goes some way to addressing this

3. Keeping the route open for the local economy - the proposal goes someway to addresing this

4) The car park does what its supposed to.

Its should be kept nice and simple - just a car park to admire the view from

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR) by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

Cyclists will be able to travel through the Debris Flow Shelter (DFS) on the existing road similar to the rest of the A83 Trunk Road. There will be a walkway alongside the DFS for maintenance and evacuation purposes however it will not be open to pedestrians or cyclists as there is no connecting cycle path or walkway currently on the A83.

With regards to passing cyclists or slow-moving road users in the DFS, it is important to note that the Highway Code states that vehicles are allowed to cross a solid white line where there are stationary or slow-moving road users including cyclists, horse riders or maintenance vehicles travelling at 10mph or less, where it is safe to do so. This applies to cyclists travelling in the DFS and along the rest of the A83 Trunk Road. Additionally, the road within the DFS will be 9.3m wide, will include two 3.65m lanes and 1m hardstrips with 2.5m wide verges. This road width is wider than the existing A83 and will aid the passing of slow-moving road users.

The improvements to the OMR as part of the Medium-Term Solution (MTS) will deliver a safe, proportionate and more resilient diversion route when the A83 is closed. The interventions include widening to sections of road carriageway at bends, extension of two-way widening, upgrades to bridges as well as drainage improvements, will be in place prior to the construction of the Long-Term Solution (LTS) and reduce disruption to road users during the construction of the DFS.

Full details of the assessment to support the selection of the preferred option for the MTS can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are aiming to mitigate both visual and landscape impacts wherever possible. This includes consideration of slanted or truss columns on the DFS and whether the roof of the structure can include some form of natural low-level planting or grass.

We have been engaging with Argyll and Bute Council, Forestry and Land Scotland, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park as well as bus operators in relation to the possibility of various opportunities at the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint. Consideration of facilities are under review as part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment and will be finalised in due course.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 088

1) A sloping roof would enhance the look whilst letting debris naturally run off, please blend it better in to the landscape, as with the car park, how many roads there? Is the road inside the tunnel heated so it doesn’t freeze with ice and run off? The access road seems to be in the direct path of debris- is this wise? Great place for a restaurant. Great to see vision zero accident prioritised over net zero!! Wisdom at last ! A tree planting programme would hold the soil

2) Medium term will last a decade no doubt, tree or willow planting would grow a lot inn10 yrs

3) It needs to be of a more natural shape, harsh shoebox shape will never look good, come on a wee bit of thought here won’t cost any more. Be respectful to our scenery

4) Restaurant , accessible loos, changing spaces loos, defib, telescope!

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR) by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are aiming to mitigate both visual and landscape impacts wherever possible. This includes consideration of slanted or truss columns on the Debris Flow Shelter (DFS) and whether the roof of the structure can include some form of natural low-level planting or grass.

With respect to the roof angle of the DFS. This was determined through an assessment of how debris material and water moved across the structure, particularly with respect to the impact it may have on the resilience of the structure, downstream slope stability and water environment. Furthermore, it is noted that investigations into both fire and smoke modelling have influenced the DFS structure and in particular the angle of the roof to improve its safe operation.

In relation to the potential water runoff and formation of ice within the DFS. The ongoing DMRB Stage 3 design development work has considered these issues with proposals in place to mitigate impacts on the water environment, including sustainable drainage proposals, including sustainable drainage systems. The section of the A83 within the DFS would be subject to the same winter maintenance regime as the rest of the trunk road network, with no intention to heat the structure.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are considering what materials can be used on the roof of the DFS.

In addition to the structural considerations, we are also considering whether the roof can include some form of natural low-level planting or grass in order to mitigate the landscape and visual impacts of the structure to try and integrate it into the surrounding environment as much as possible.

No decision has been made on the roof material and appearance and this will be confirmed in due course.

Design development of the car park layout as well as the need to accommodate a temporary diversion route via the OMR is ongoing and will be finalised in due course.

We have been engaging with Argyll and Bute Council, Forestry and Land Scotland, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park as well as bus operators in relation to the possibility of various opportunities at the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint. Consideration of facilities are under review as part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment and will be finalised in due course.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 089

1) Can we get a car park at the bottom? Perhaps in association with the roof access road. Walking up to the rest and be thankful could be popular!

2) Please make the whole route two way. The only reason for a holdup should be for oversized vehicles.

3) Looks great and should be done already!

Shame the tunnel will stop us seeing the hills on one side.

Could the road be widened to allow a slow lane? This could assist lorries but also allow tourists to go slower to enjoy the views whilst through traffic could continue unimpeded.

Are there lanes for cyclists and active travel?

4) Visitor centre at top is needed to showcase wider Argyll area and Islands.

A restaurant with views is needed plus a cafe with takeaway facilities.

Nature trails and walkways should be available at the top. More car parking spaces plus EV charging should be installed.

Plenty of space for tour coaches to stop plus for regular public transport.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held in earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

The emerging car park design at the Rest and Be Thankful viewpoint includes a revised connection from the car park to the B828 Glen Mhor local road and also includes access to an improved junction layout to and from the A83. The updated layout improves safety through a reduction in the number of junctions and conflicts between traffic (as well as improving visibility for road users) and improves the bus stop and bus turning facility (improving the gradient and integrating the bus stop within the car park).

Design development of the car park layout as well as the need to accommodate a temporary diversion route via the OMR is ongoing and will be finalised in due course.

As the roof of the Debris Flow Shelter (DFS) will be used as maintenance access there are no plans to include active travel provisions such as a walking route on the roof of the shelter.

Full details of the assessment to support the selection of the preferred option for the MTS can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Cyclists will be able to travel through the DFS on the existing road similar to the rest of the A83 Trunk Road. There will be a walkway alongside the DFS for maintenance and evacuation purposes however it will not be open to pedestrians or cyclists as there is no connecting cycle path or walkway currently on the A83.

With regards to passing cyclists or slow-moving road users in the DFS, it is important to note that the Highway Code states that vehicles are allowed to cross a solid white line where there are stationary or slow-moving road users including cyclists, horse riders or maintenance vehicles travelling at 10mph or less, where it is safe to do so. This applies to cyclists travelling in the DFS and along the rest of the A83 Trunk Road. Additionally, the road within the DFS will be 9.3m wide, will include two 3.65m lanes and 1m hardstrips with 2.5m wide verges. This road width is wider than the existing A83 and will aid the passing of slow-moving road users. It is noted that traffic volumes on the route and the proportion of HGVs are not considered sufficient to justify provision of a slow lane through the DFS.

We have been engaging with Argyll and Bute Council, Forestry and Land Scotland, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park as well as bus operators in relation to the possibility of various opportunities at the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint. Consideration of facilities are under review as part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment and will be finalised in due course.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 090

1) Fantastic

2) Great

3) Brilliant design. Same as they use in the Alps for decades and has worked well.

4) Great. It’s badly needs upgraded.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

We have been engaging with Argyll and Bute Council, Forestry and Land Scotland, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park as well as bus operators in relation to the possibility of various opportunities at the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint. Consideration of facilities are under review as part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment and will be finalised in due course.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 091

1) It is about time this happened. All around the world this is the chosen solution to the problem. Just a shame that transport Scotland spent millions and millions of pounds doing the wrong thing.

2) Pointless

3) Doesnt matter. Do what is required

4) Does not look like there is any changes to the car park. Concentrate on sorting the road.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

Design development of the car park layout as well as the need to accommodate a temporary diversion route via the Old Military Road (OMR) is ongoing and will be finalised in due course.

We have been engaging with Argyll and Bute Council, Forestry and Land Scotland, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park as well as bus operators in relation to the possibility of various opportunities at the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint. Consideration of facilities are under review as part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment and will be finalised in due course.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 092

1) A tunnel or shelter system as shown in the video would be suitable

3) Having a "live" roof with plants would be nice in both an ecological sense and from a design point.

4) a) never used it

b) weight has to be given about this providing too much of a traffic hotspot - solutions should be focussed on keeping traffic moving with minimal disruption and turning this into a tourist hotspot may affect that. Please don;t fix one solution only to break it with something that isn;t necessary.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are considering what materials can be used on the roof of the Debris Flow Shelter (DFS).

In addition to the structural considerations, we are also considering whether the roof can include some form of natural low-level planting or grass in order to mitigate the landscape and visual impacts of the structure to try and integrate it into the surrounding environment as much as possible.

No decision has been made on the roof material and appearance and this will be confirmed in due course.

We have been engaging with Argyll and Bute Council, Forestry and Land Scotland, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park as well as bus operators in relation to the possibility of various opportunities at the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint. Consideration of facilities are under review as part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment and will be finalised in due course.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 093

1) This looks great and the case for it is obvious. Will you replant native trees on the hillside to act as a break and minimise erosion?

2) 1. Should there be some emergency lay-bys in case of vehicle breakdowns.? It’s a long structure so I can just imagine the tailbacks on both sides if a vehicle breaks down and traffic has to stop to get around it. I don’t know if it’s feasible to provide lay-bys on both side by ‘digging’ into the hillside.

2. Will there be recovery vehicles somewhere to respond quickly in case of breakdown?

3. What will happen to the old military road? Is it going to be resurfaced and used as an emergency access or alternative route? Could it be used as a cycle route?

3) I don’t think you have a choice, short of digging a tunnel (expensive and probably un feasible) or rerouting which would be highly inconvenient for local communities. Could the roof be planted with low level plants to improve merging with surrounding landscape?

4) Picnic tables and a shelter would be nice.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are considering in detail what procedures need to be in place within the Debris Flow Shelter (DFS) in the event of a breakdown or fire.

Going forward, we will continue to develop proposals in line with the emerging design and in accordance with relevant design standards and legislation. This will include consideration of how to prevent incidents, how to detect incidents, how to raise awareness of incidents, how to limit the consequences of an incident, how to respond effectively to incidents and how to operate and maintain the structure under normal conditions.

With respect to emergency layby provisions within the extent of the DFS, it is not considered necessary to include such facilities as the road within the DFS will be 9.3m wide, will include two 3.65m lanes and 1m hardstrips with 2.5m wide verges. This road width is wider than the existing A83 and will aid the passing of slow-moving road users.

Other aspects under ongoing investigation include both fire and smoke modelling work and a lighting assessment, to determine what daytime, night-time and emergency lighting is required within the structure. Opportunities to utilise the Old Military Road (OMR) and other existing routes are being considered as part of this assessment.

We are also considering opportunities for an active travel link from the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint to the forestry tracks on the lower slopes of Ben Donich, to the west of the OMR, as identified on the information boards displayed at the public engagement events.

In relation to the roof of the DFS, consideration is being given to what materials can be used. The most important aspect of this decision will be to ensure that the roof includes compressible fill material (e.g. similar in composition to sand) in order to act as a cushion for the concrete structure during any potential landslide or boulder fall. The material on the roof also needs to be capable of supporting maintenance vehicles during the clear-up operation of material from the catch pit following a landslide event.

In addition to the structural considerations, we are also considering whether the roof can include some form of natural low-level planting or grass in order to mitigate the landscape and visual impacts of the structure to try and integrate it into the surrounding environment as much as possible.

No decision has been made on the roof material and appearance and this will be confirmed in due course.

We have been engaging with Argyll and Bute Council, Forestry and Land Scotland, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park as well as bus operators in relation to the possibility of various opportunities at the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint. Consideration of facilities are under review as part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment and will be finalised in due course.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 094

1) Does genuinely seem to provide a long term solution, but the principle that the shelter would be cheaper that rerouting the road to the south side of the valley, in the forestry, does not seem believable.

The lack of mention of cycling or walking provision is disappointing. E.g. Would the shelter be lit and/or have a shoulder that could be used for cycling? Would the OMR be available for (unobstructed) walking and cycling?

In short, cycling and walking should be considered and catered for.

2) Upgrading and widening of OMR is a good idea.

3) The Glen is not particularly natural as it is, with plantations in the south and overgrazing elsewhere.

Thought should be given to natural regeneration and reducing deer numbers

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

The key reasons to support the debris flow shelter (DFS) as the preferred route option are that it achieves the scheme objectives of improving resilience and operational safety of the trunk road network. In addition to being the most favourable of all options across a broad range of environmental criteria, whilst having the greatest potential to be delivered quickly and providing the greatest opportunity to encourage sustainable travel.

Full details of the DMRB Stage 2 Assessment which led to the preferred option, cost information and breakdown, as well as details of all the options, including the Green Option on the other side of the Glen, can be found using the link provided above or on the A83 Story Map – Road Alignment Design Development - Additional Information (arcgis.com).

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, we are undertaking a lighting assessment in order to better understand what daytime and night-time lighting is required within the DFS. This takes account of the potential “strobe” effect and the change in light on both entry and exit from the structure. This work also takes account of the different column arrangements under consideration (e.g. vertical columns or slanted, truss columns).

Cyclists will be able to travel through the DFS on the existing road similar to the rest of the A83 Trunk Road. There will be a walkway alongside the DFS for maintenance and evacuation purposes however it will not be open to pedestrians or cyclists as there is no connecting cycle path or walkway currently on the A83.

With regards to passing cyclists or slow-moving road users in the DFS, it is important to note that the Highway Code states that vehicles are allowed to cross a solid white line where there are stationary or slow-moving road users including cyclists, horse riders or maintenance vehicles travelling at 10mph or less, where it is safe to do so. This applies to cyclists travelling in the DFS and along the rest of the A83 Trunk Road. Additionally, the road within the DFS will be 9.3m wide, will include two 3.65m lanes and 1m hardstrips with 2.5m wide verges. This road width is wider than the existing A83 and will aid the passing of slow-moving road users.

Opportunities to utilise the OMR and other existing routes are being considered as part of this assessment.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 095

1) Happy with it as long as there are no delays and we don’t have to wait even longer.

2) Fine with it.

3) I like the look of it. I'll still be able to see the view while driving through it.

4) a) Ok but could be better. b) Benches + toilets would be good.

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

The next step for the scheme which is the detailed design and assessment of the preferred option is progressing at pace and will conclude with the publication of draft Orders for comment, currently expected by the end of this year. Progress following the publication of draft Orders will depend on the level and nature of any representations, including objections, to the published draft Orders.

Design development of the car park layout as well as the need to accommodate a temporary diversion route via the Old Military Road (OMR) is ongoing and will be finalised in due course.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 096

A swift solution is essential.

1) Long term solution. I think this should be a tunnel.

Is it absolutely certain that the roof of the shelter will be strong enough to resist the impact of the enormous boulders that come crashing down from a great height during landslides? There's no point in building this if it's not. A tunnel would avoid any risk of a heavy boulder damaging the roof.

Does the debris flow shelter cover all the points on the road which have been hit by a landslide?

I note that the A83 will be closed for a "considerable" period while the debris flow shelter is being constructed. This is very concerning. Can you please be more specific? Building a tunnel would presumably avoid a long closure of the road.

2) Medium Term Solution. This should be two lanes for as much of the road as is possible.

4) Car park. There must be enough parking spaces so that on a busy day all can park safely. There must be enough parking for touring coaches so that they don't use the bus stop. Traffic Regulation Orders to prevent this are not enforceable in practice because traffic wardens rarely pass here. The bus stop should be close to the road, and its location and access should be discussed with the bus companies so that they agree to use it in the winter months. They refuse to use it during winter months at present. I believe that is because they do not regard the gradient and sharp turn on the access road as safe in icy weather.

Regards, [Redacted]

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

A number of options, including two featuring tunnels, were considered as part of the DMRB Stage 2 Assessment. These options looked to mitigate the most at risk area at the Rest and Be Thankful, however, we are aware that there have been landslides elsewhere on the A83 Trunk Road, such as at Glen Kinglas in October 2023. For over 15 years, the Scottish Road Network Landslide Study has guided how landslide risks are managed across the whole of the trunk road network, including the wider A83 Trunk Road beyond the Rest and Be Thankful. Depending on the records and location-specific issues, this has seen risk reduction measures implemented such as warning signage erected, mitigation schemes constructed or regular monitoring. This approach continues and the October 2023 events, when heavy and persistent rainfall caused major impacts on the trunk and local road networks, with significant disruption across Argyll, feed into ongoing work for the safe operation of the A83.

Information on why the DFS and catch pit, on the line of the existing A83, have been identified as the preferred route for the proposed scheme can be found in the DMRB Stage 2 Report.

As part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment, detailed structural and geotechnical modelling has been undertaken to explore all potential loading conditions and scenarios which could be encountered as a consequence of a landslide event. This work has confirmed that the DFS is capable of withstanding the significant and variable loading conditions.

Furthermore, we are considering what materials can be used on the roof of the debris flow shelter. The most important aspect of this decision will be to ensure that the roof includes compressible fill material (e.g. similar in composition to sand) in order to act as a cushion for the concrete structure during any potential landslide or boulder fall. The material on the roof also needs to be capable of supporting maintenance vehicles during the clear-up operation of material from the catch pit following a landslide event.

In addition to the structural considerations, we are also considering whether the roof can include some form of natural low-level planting or grass in order to mitigate the landscape and visual impacts of the structure to try and integrate it into the surrounding environment as much as possible.

No decision has been made on the roof material and appearance and this will be confirmed in due course.

The six-metre-wide catch pit is proposed to run parallel to the DFS and the Debris Flow Protection Wall (DFW). The catch pit’s main function is to capture material arising from landslides and rockfall events within Glen Croe, mitigating direct impacts to the DFS and DFW.

By providing the catch pit parallel to the DFS and DFW, this allows the landslip and rockfall material to be cleared up following an event. The clear up operation will include the material being excavated by a construction plant (e.g. excavators and dumper trucks) situated on the roof of the DFS. A maintenance access track at the southern end of the DFS provides access to the roof for maintenance operatives. This approach thereby allows traffic to continue running on the A83 during and after a landslide event.

These improvements will not only improve its safety and resilience as a diversion route, but also improve the operation by extending the length of two-way operation, reducing journey times. The two-way operation will cover the southern end of the OMR only, due to the topography and tight bends at the northern end this will remain single lane.

Full details of the assessment to support the selection of the preferred option for the MTS can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Further work is currently being undertaken as part of the DMRB Stage 3 Assessment which consists of a more detailed design of the preferred route. It will consider the potential construction sequencing, with a key area of focus within the DMRB Stage 3 Assessment to reduce the impact of potential disruption to road users during construction.

We have been engaging with Argyll and Bute Council, Forestry and Land Scotland, Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park as well as bus operators in relation to the possibility of various opportunities at the Rest and Be Thankful Car Park and Viewpoint. Consideration of facilities are under review as part of the ongoing DMRB Stage 3 Assessment and will be finalised in due course.

Design development of the car park layout as well as the need to accommodate a temporary diversion route via the OMR is ongoing and will be finalised in due course.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

A83RABT 097

1) would like to see access gates provided on the OMR to all safe travel for all vulnerable road users.

Bridle gates with stockmens long handles and self closing latches are preferable

2) As per above for the safety of vulnerable road users. Bridle gates with stockmen long handles on the

OMR

3) None intrusive gates and handles.

4a+b) Toilets and food purchasing opportunities along with bins for rubbish. The bins need to be recycle

Response

Thank you for the feedback you provided following the public engagement events held earlier in the year.

Transport Scotland will use your feedback to help inform the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Stage 3 Assessment.

We aim to conclude this work with the publication of draft Orders and an Environmental Impact Assessment Report by the end of this year.

The information presented at the public engagement events can be found on the Transport Scotland Website.

Please see below a response to your feedback.

Opportunities to utilise the Old Military Road (OMR) and other existing routes are being considered as part of this assessment. Your comments regarding access gate arrangements are noted.

To keep up to date with future developments on the scheme please visit the A83 Story Map.

If you require any further information, please email A83@WSP.com

Thank you for your interest in the scheme.

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