The A83 trunk road at the Rest and Be Thankful in Argyll reopened on Tuesday afternoon following a swift operation to remove a large boulder from the hillside above. Teams from BEAR Scotland acted fast to address the safety risk, ensuring the route back to normal traffic flow by 2:30 pm after closing early that morning.
Details of the Boulder Removal Operation
Workers spotted the boulder during routine checks and decided to tackle it right away to prevent any accidents before winter storms hit. The job started with preparations on Monday, when traffic shifted to the Old Military Road so a helicopter could drop off heavy gear up the steep slope.
On Tuesday at 6 am, the main A83 section between Ardgarten and the viewpoint car park shut down completely. Specialists then used explosives to break the boulder, estimated at up to 30 tonnes, and guided it safely down the hill without hitting the road below. Video footage captured the dramatic moment as the rock tumbled close to the carriageway but stopped short.
The whole process wrapped up quicker than planned, thanks to good weather and skilled crews. This proactive step cut down on potential dangers from falling debris, a common worry in this hilly area.
Expert Views on Road Safety Priorities
Euan Scott, who represents BEAR Scotland in the north west, praised the team’s quick response. He noted that spotting and fixing the boulder early keeps drivers safe and avoids bigger headaches later in the season. Safety tops the list for all involved, and this move shows how they stay ahead of nature’s challenges.
Contractors worked hand in hand with geotechnical experts to assess the site. They made sure every step followed strict protocols to protect both workers and the public. Such operations highlight the blend of technology and human skill needed in remote spots like this.
Local officials echoed these sentiments, stressing that timely action builds trust with communities who rely on the road daily. No injuries occurred, and the site cleared fast, proving the value of prepared emergency plans.
Effects on Drivers and Local Travel
The short closure caused some delays, but diversions via the Old Military Road kept things moving for most folks heading to Argyll and Bute. Ferry services from Western Ferries stepped up as backup options for those avoiding the area altogether.
Real time updates from Traffic Scotland helped many plan around the work. Apps and social media posts gave live info on when the road would open again, reducing frustration for commuters and tourists alike.
- Key alternatives during the closure included:
- Old Military Road diversion for trunk road users.
- Western Ferries routes across the Clyde for longer trips.
- Local back roads for short journeys in the region.
This event reminds drivers to check ahead, especially in autumn when weather turns tricky. Many shared stories of past hold ups here, turning a routine drive into an unexpected adventure.
Past Landslide Challenges in the Area
The Rest and Be Thankful has a history of rockfalls and slips, making it one of Scotland’s trickiest routes. Just last month in September 2025, heavy rain triggered several landslides along the A83, closing it for days and requiring major cleanup.
Over the years, storms like Frank in 2016 have caused similar chaos, with boulders and debris blocking the way. Each incident leads to better monitoring, but the steep terrain and wet climate keep risks high. Experts point out that climate change might make these events more frequent, pushing for stronger fixes.
| Event Date | Incident Type | Duration of Closure | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| September 2025 | Multiple landslides from heavy rain | Two days | Road cleared after debris removal; inspections ongoing |
| January 2016 | 150-tonne boulder loosened by Storm Frank | One day after explosion | Stabilized rock; one lane remained closed for repairs |
| October 2025 | Single large boulder removal | Half day | Full reopening by afternoon; no further risks identified |
These patterns show why ongoing vigilance matters. Past events have cost time and money, but they also drive improvements in road design.
Looking Ahead to Long Term Solutions
BEAR Scotland and Transport Scotland plan bigger projects to tackle the root causes. A major ground investigation wrapped up half its work by May 2025, aiming for a permanent landslide shield. This could include debris fences and better drainage to handle future threats.
Communities welcome these efforts, as the road links key areas for jobs and tourism. Delays in funding have slowed progress, but recent pushes suggest action soon. For now, the quick boulder fix buys time and peace of mind.
Experts reason that combining short term ops like this with long range plans will make the route safer overall. It solves immediate problems while building for tomorrow’s needs.
Share your thoughts on driving the A83 or similar routes in Scotland. Have you faced delays here before? Comment below and share this article with friends who travel the west coast.
