Work to ease traffic at Pulpit Rock on A82 Loch Lomond

Traffic lights have been at Pulpit Rock for about 30 years

Work is expected to start in the spring to remove a traffic congestion black spot on the banks of Loch Lomond.

The 12-month project at Pulpit Rock on the A82 will get rid of traffic lights which have been there for 30 years.

It will see the road widened, about 0.5km of new road built and a new viaduct running parallel to the shore.

Construction of the viaduct and rock cutting will see the A82 closed in each direction for up to 14 weeks between October 2013 and January 2014.

Diversions will be put in place during the closure period.

'Engineering challenges'

Transport Scotland said it intends to award the £9.2m contract to carry out the work to McLaughlin and Harvey Ltd.

Transport Minister, Keith Brown said: "The A82 Pulpit Rock scheme sits within one of the most unique and scenic landscapes in Scotland that brings many visitors to Loch Lomond. We fully recognise delivery will not be without its engineering challenges.

"Our commitment to improve the traffic flow at Pulpit Rock is unwavering and, on completion, this project will bring real benefits for businesses and communities in the Highlands and Islands, not least the haulage industry.

"This is why I am pleased the announcement our preferred contractor shows, at long last, Pulpit Rock will have a road befitting its setting and importance."