COUNCIL officers are unable to give assurances that key roadworks on Islay will begin later this month.
A councillor sought clarity on when a start can be expected for the process between Port Charlotte and Nerabus, which has been delayed for some time.
But assurance was given that work on a bus stop at West Loch in Tarbert will take place, having waited for a number of years.
The discussion took place at a meeting of Argyll and Bute Council’s Mid Argyll, Kintyre and the Islands area committee on Wednesday, September 2.
Councillor Dougie McFadzean (SNP, Kintyre and the Islands) said: “The works between Port Charlotte and Nerabus have now been delayed three times. I know it is difficult getting materials over here, and it is coming on a barge, but can you give assurance that work will start on September 15?
“Also, regarding the bus stop, I inherited this request from the community from the late John McAlpine, who inherited it from Councillor Anne Horn (SNP, Kintyre and the Islands) before she stood down (in 2022, returned two years later).
“This has gone on for six years now. Can I have assurance that this bus stop is going to happen?”
Mark Calder, the council’s project manager, responded: “The bus stop is something that my team picked up towards the end of last year. There is a bit of land negotiation and a safety audit.
“Our engagement with Transport Scotland has been very positive and we are going to go through the process. Funding has been identified through the business infrastructure fund so it will progress.
“I need to be a bit less definitive (regarding the roadworks). We will do the best we can in terms of these.
“I know it is extremely frustrating, and it is frustrating for our staff who are ready to deliver the works, but there are a number of issues with barges. They will do their best.”
