Public consultations on the Scottish Government’s proposed solutions for the A83 Rest and Be Thankful (RABT) are set to begin next week, with exhibitions scheduled across Argyll.
The consultations aim to update the community on progress in tackling the persistent landslip risks affecting this vital route.
However, the RABT campaign group, which advocates for urgent improvements to the lifeline road through Glen Croe, has criticised both the proposals and the information to be presented at the meetings.
John Gurr, chairman of the RABT campaign group, welcomed the initiative but raised concerns about the material to be presented.
“We appreciate the effort to hold these exhibitions, but the information provided has significant omissions,” Mr Gurr said. “For example, Transport Scotland has confirmed that the Old Military Road will be used during the four-year construction phase. Despite £30 million spent upgrading sections of this road, it will remain a single-track convoy system, causing delays of up to 25 minutes.”
Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop defended the government’s approach, highlighting ongoing improvements to the Old Military Road.
“We’ve made progress in enhancing the temporary diversion route,” she said. “The first phase of improvements, including realignment of the southern end, was completed earlier this year. Future phases, such as widening sections of the road, installing new bridges, and implementing landslide mitigation measures, are planned for 2025.”
Despite these assurances, Mr Gurr voiced doubts about the long-term solution, citing concerns over funding and feasibility.
“The £430 million needed for the permanent solution has not been ring-fenced,” he said. “Allocations will depend on future budgets, with construction funding not confirmed until after the next Scottish Parliament in 2026. Given financial constraints, there’s no guarantee this project will take priority.”
He also criticised the proposed long-term solution, arguing that it might prove unaffordable or impractical.
“We believe the past four years have been wasted, with £30 million spent on measures that haven’t delivered a two-way road since the landslides in August 2020,” he said. “We’ve suggested alternative, cost-effective solutions, such as the green route, but these have been dismissed.”
Ms Hyslop urged the public to engage with the process, whether by attending exhibitions or accessing the virtual display online.
“I encourage anyone with an interest in the A83 improvements to participate and share their views,” she said.
The public exhibitions will take place at the following venues:
Victoria Hall, Campbeltown: Wednesday, January 15, 1-7pm;
Lochgilphead Bowling Club: Thursday, January 16, 1-7pm;
Lochgoilhead Village Hall: Friday, January 17, 1-6pm;
Queen’s Hall, Dunoon: Monday, January 20, 1-7pm;
Three Villages Hall, Arrochar: Tuesday, January 21, 1-3pm.
