Repair work set for next month after landslip on 'lifeline route'

CAITHNESS civic leader Willie Mackay has questioned the delay involved in repair work following the landslip at Helmsdale last month.

Mr Mackay, who represents the Wick and East Caithness ward on Highland Council, said: "I am a bit disappointed that it has taken so long – the A9 is a major lifeline road."

He was speaking after Bear Scotland confirmed yesterday that repairs to the landslip are due to start at the beginning of October.

"I thought they might have moved a bit quicker. Let's hope it will be a good solid job and there are no more landslips," Mr Mackay said.

"That stretch of road between Brora and Helmsdale has not been improved for many, many years."

North MP Jamie Stone said: "Obviously I welcome the news that they are eventually taking this road seriously – it is not for want of asking.

"The A9 is one of the vital lifelines to the far north and when it is blocked we are in serious trouble.

"Once the work is completed I hope the necessary safety assessments are made to minimise the likelihood of any repetition in the future."

Mr Stone added: "I use this road all the time and I know how important it is."

A Bear Scotland spokesperson said: "Our teams are set to begin a repair to the embankment of the A9 south of Helmsdale from Monday, October 1.

"The repair will involve working from the bottom of the embankment and installing around 450 tonnes of rock on the slope to stabilise the area while still allowing water to drain through.

"The repair is expected to take up to two weeks to complete, and our teams will do all they can to complete the project as quickly and safely as possible.

"We thank the local community and motorists for their continued patience while we complete these repairs to the embankment."

Once the repair is complete the temporary traffic lights, which were set up on the A9 after the landslip four weeks ago, will be removed and both lanes of the road will reopen.