Early September completion date targeted for ‘complex’ A68 repair job

BEAR Scotland has said it aims to complete repairs to the A68 near Fala by early September.

A severe weather incident on August 12 resulted in damage to the carriageway as the 20-metre-deep embankment below it failed – 5,000 tonnes of stone has been sourced to reinstate the embankment, the firm revealed.

Andy Thompson, BEAR Scotland’s south east representative, told of the work being undertaken. He said, “We now have a detailed programme for the remainder of these works. We’ve considered how to minimise the timescale for each step and are optimistic that we can reopen the A68 by early September, barring further severe weather or unforeseen issues.

“The repair is being carried out in three phases. We’ve already made good progress on the first phase stabilising the site, diverting utilities and putting down initial layers of stone. In the second phase we will complete the 5,000 tonne rock infill to bring the collapsed embankment up to road level. The final phase is to complete the rebuild of the road itself, including reinstatement of the roadside barrier, drainage and lining.

“I’m grateful to road users and local communities for their patience while these works continue. Please rest assured we are doing everything in our power to get the A68 reopened as soon as possible and to minimise the disruption caused.”