Of the medium-term options under consideration, the improvements to the OMR will improve the resilience of the diversion route, reduce journey times, are the quickest to implement, of relatively lower cost and would have the least impacts overall across the range of criteria assessed.

A detailed programme for the proposed improvements will now be developed. These include debris catch fences, temporary bunds, drainage improvements and widening and discrete realignment to improve bends and avoid flooding. It is expected that these works will be carried out on a phased basis starting later next year.

Transport Scotland expects to provide further information on timescales and delivery of the programme of works to the OMR at the next A83 Taskforce meeting when it meets in Argyll at the end of January.

Transport minister Jenny Gilruth said: “The Scottish Government remains committed to a long-term solution to the landslip risks at the A83 Rest and Be Thankful. There is a clear need for pace and urgency on delivering these improvements and I recognise that communities have been waiting for many years to see the action that is required.

“Transport Scotland appointed consultants at the end of the Summer to develop an action plan that will deliver tangible action on the route. That work includes a consideration of traditional roads and localised structural protection, to full tunnel options. A final decision on the long term solution will be confirmed by consultants by the Spring of 2023.

“Meantime, consultants have now identified improvements to the existing Old Military Road (OMR) to create a more resilient diversion route through Glen Croe while the long term solution is being developed.

“These improvements will mean more certainty for locals and road users if the A83 is shut due to adverse weather conditions. Transport Scotland will provide more details of the improvements planned to the OMR at the next A83 Taskforce meeting in Argyll in January.

“All of this work underlines the Scottish Government’s commitment to work with key stakeholders and local communities to ensure that Argyll & Bute remains open for business.”