UPDATE: Bear aims for early September reopening of A68

After seeing the extent of the damage on the A68 road collapse site near Fala in our earlier story this morning, readers may be somewhat surprised that Bear Scotland hopes to have the road reopened by early September.
By Kevin Janiak
Published 20th Aug 2020, 11:08 BST
Work in progress at the site near Fala.Work in progress at the site near Fala.
Work in progress at the site near Fala.

While this is a weather-dependent timescale, the news will be welcome to the many drivers who use the road daily to commute.

Andy Thompson, BEAR Scotland’s south east representative, said: “We now have a detailed programme for the remainder of these works.

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“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.

Initial layer of stones are laid down to start to reform the embankment.Initial layer of stones are laid down to start to reform the embankment.
Initial layer of stones are laid down to start to reform the embankment.

“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.

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“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.”

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