Scrabster A9 slope works to begin this week
Works are due to begin on Tuesday this week to stabilise the steep slope above the A9 at Scrabster.
Bear Scotland, which is carrying out the works on the trunk road on behalf of Transport Scotland, announced the works are now scheduled to end on Friday, April 25.
That is slightly longer than the three-week schedule previously expected.
Works will take place daily between 8am and 6pm, and there will be temporary traffic lights in operation on the road to the harbour.
Bear Scotland said the A9 at Scrabster is a critical route for access to the busy harbour and ferry terminal, providing lifeline services to and from Orkney.
The programme of works will involve the safe removal of loose debris and damaged fencing, as well as salvaging stones from the damaged masonry wall. The primary works will involve installing a geotechnical matting material onto the exposed hillside soil to protect it and encourage vegetation growth. This will be secured with mesh and a pattern of long soil nails. Finally, the fence and stone wall will be reinstated to restore the area.
Ian Stewart, Bear Scotland’s north-west representative, said: “The temporary traffic management arrangements are essential to safeguard both road users and our workforce. We urge all motorists to follow the signage and traffic controls in place to avoid unnecessary delay.
“We appreciate road users’ patience while we carry out these vital repairs. Our teams will work as efficiently as possible to complete the project safely and on schedule. This particular section of hillside next to the A9 is susceptible to landslides so following this immediate work, a wider review of the hillside will take place which will inform us as to other preventative work that may be possible.
“We encourage all road users to plan their journeys in advance, particularly those using the ferry service, by checking the Traffic Scotland website for up-to-date travel information.”