Opening of a new viaduct on the shoreline of Loch Lomond in Scotland has meant that traffic light controls have been removed from a narrow section of the A82 for the first time in over 30 years.

 

The viaduct at Pulpit Rock now provides a two way carriageway at what was previously a narrow, one lane stretch of road.

 

The £9.2M upgrade was described as a “remarkable engineering achievement” by Scottish Transport Minister Derek Mackay.

 

“The A82 is not only a vital lifeline for businesses and local communities but a very popular route for visitors to Scotland," he said. "This is why we have pumped £57M into the road’s upgrade and maintenance since 2007.

 

A Transport Scotland spokesman added that the road improvement at Pulpit Rock will provide improved journey time reliability and reduce driver frustration. The A82 is a main link between Glasgow and the Highlands.

 

The viaduct structure opened to traffic late last week and minor finishing works will take place to complete the scheme over the coming weeks.

 

Meanwhile a project to improve a 16km stretch of the A82 at Loch Lomond between Tarbet and Inverarnan is currently being taken forward. Design plans for this scheme are expected to be published this year.

 

Transport Minister Derek Mackay explained: “We must strike a fine balance in seeking to meet the varying needs of road users and being sensitive to the world renowned scenic beauty of the area.”

 

(Photo: Transport Scotland)