Closed - but still open for business

The closure of the "Rest and Be Thankful" after yet another landslip creates real and serious problems for my constituency.

I have been working for most of the day on the issue, answering emails, talking to Government and Councillors and trying to help with a myriad of problems that have arisen in the last 24 hours as a result of the 1000 or more tonnes of mud and rock that has fallen on the carriegeway.

Of course no individual or organsation can be blamed as the increasing instability of the hillside above the road is a result of increased reainfull, more exceptional weather events and ( probably )changes in land use. In fact much time , money and effort has been expended in recent years on trying to find a solution and that activity is still going on.

The good news is the clearance process started this evening though it is slow as a result of the danger of further falls.

Everyone is working towards a long term solution but the engineering and financial issues are monumental. But I will go on being focussed on this until a result is achieved as this road is the key artery into Cowal, Mid Argyll & Kintyre and it msut be fit for purpose.

And I also experience the problems first hand. I had to go to Helensburgh with Cathleen this afternoon and it took 2 hours by ferry and road, and 2 and a half hours back on the diversion via Dalmally. It usually takes just over an hour.

All the time I was on my email or on the phone - that is where it could be used.

But in case that all sounds too negative let me assure prospective visitors that Argyll is still open for business, as the Council Leader Roddy McCuish did in his statement this afternoon.

And the diversion routes are , if a bit longer, at least very scenic. Come and see us !