Transport Scotland is piloting 'wig wag' warning signs to warn road users when there is an increased risk of landslides.
The A83 at the Rest and Be Thankful is an area at increased risk of natural landslides. In 2008, Transport Scotland’s Scottish Road Network Landslide Action Plan identified it as a key route for improvement.
What are Wig Wag Signs?
To protect trunk road users, we have invested £760,000 in a programme of mitigation works which included state of the art hillside monitoring equipment, as well as the first ever use of landslide ‘Wig Wag' road signs.
The signs are part of a two year pilot to test their efficiency as a warning system for road users.
How do the Signs Work?
When there is increased risk of a landslide, such as extensive rainfall, the sign will flash. This does not mean that the road is closed but acts as a warning to road users who must exercise extreme caution when using the road.
Drivers should familiarise themselves with the new signs and how they operate. For further details please download our Wig-Wag information leaflet.
What other measures are being put in place?
The first phase of works, which began in 2010, included the installation of remote sensor equipment that will monitor hillside movement. At the same time, debris flow fencing was erected along a stretch of the A83 to help reduce the risk of future landslide material reaching the roadside.
Further works included replacing an existing drainage culvert, repairing the embankment and resurfacing the road.
In addition to the protection measures, Landslide Patrols are regularly carried out by the Operating Company to identify and report slope stability both above and below the road.
Transport Scotland's aim is to keep roads open as safe as possible. Drivers can help make their trip even safer by following these steps:
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