The new bypass, which includes the construction of a new 1.3 km stretch of the A82, will allow through traffic to avoid a bottleneck where the A82 and A85 meet and will enable road users to avoid the low bridges in Crianlarich.

Planners said local communities, businesses and tourists alike will benefit from reduced congestion on local roads, whilst the wider economy will also benefit by enhancing transport connections right across Scotland.

Transport minister Derek Mackay said the development will be welcomed by users of the A82, but also the people of Crianlarich who are well used to substantial levels of traffic flowing through the town, especially during tourist season.

He added: “The new two lane bypass will improve access for local people, local businesses and tourists by taking much of the through traffic away from Crianlarich. However, the bypass will not only bring much needed relief to the community, it will also improve journey time reliability and transport connections for road users from across Scotland.

“We are also making further significant improvements to the A82, one of Scotland’s key roads, with the £10m Pulpit Rock project on Loch Lomondside already well-advanced with the new structure now clearly visible to road users. This project will remove traffic lights for the first time in over thirty years.

“Plans are also well underway to upgrade the 17 km stretch of the A82 between Tarbet and Inverarnan and we have recently delivered a new £2m bridge at Bridge of Orchy. This is in addition to our investment of over £57m since 2007 to maintain the A82, which underlines our commitment to ensure the A82 is fit for purpose.”

Mike Cantlay, chairman of VisitScotland, added: “Anything that helps improve the visitor experience in Scotland is to be welcomed. The opening of the A82 bypass at Crianlarich is excellent news for Highland holidaymakers, as it will help cut the journey time to Glencoe, Fort William and the West Highlands.”

RJ McLeod will remain in Crianlarich over the coming weeks to complete minor works.