Proposals for an upgrade of one of the busiest tourist gateways to the Highlands have been revealed by transport chiefs.
Transport Scotland wants to improve a southern section of the A82 Fort William-Glasgow road between Tarbet and Inverarnan.
Their preferred route, announced yesterday, will follow the existing carriageway beside Loch Lomond, which is used by more than 5,500 vehicles every day in summer.
The twisting route, which includes two viaducts, nine brides and 25 retaining walls, will be widened, with a cycleway/footpath also added.
Design works will now start, worth £8million, will now be carried out, along with ground investigation and topographical surveys.
Transport Minister Derek Mackay said: “The 10-mile section of the A82 between Tarbet and Inverarnan runs between the iconic Loch Lomond and the stunning hills that border it, so it is important that this scheme overcomes the challenges of the topography while maintaining the world renowned beauty of the area.”
He added: “Coupled with the completed Pulpit Rock improvement and Crianlarich Bypass schemes, already bringing improved road safety and journey time reliability, we are committed to upgrading the A82 which is a vital economic and social lifeline as it connects businesses and communities in the Highlands and Islands with the central belt.”
Roads company Bear Scotland will now carry out a series of short-term improvements, including clearing vegetation and tree canopies. Other improvements will be considered, including widening the road at tight bends and additional improvements to the drainage system along the route will also be investigated.
A series of public exhibitions has been arranged to allow local people to comment on the plans.
The first of these was in Arrochar yesterday, however one will be held today at Crianlarich Village Hall from 12noon-7pm.
Tomorrow there will be a display at Kilmore and Oban Parish Church Hall, Oban, from 2pm-7pm.
And on Tuesday October 6, an exhibition will be held at Duncansburgh MacIntosh Church Hall in Fort William from 12noon-7pm.