Bealach na Ba fully reopened after cable work
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A VITAL road link has fully reopened to traffic three weeks earlier than planned following cable installation works.
SSE has been installing high speed fibre optic cable over the Bealach na Ba in recent weeks as it works to connect it to the Ministry of Defence base at Sand, just a few miles from Applecross.
The work, which was carried out at nights, was originally planned for daytime hours earlier this spring – but sparked deep concern in the local area.
Businesses had been worried about a loss of vital tourist trade during the start of the season.
But following a public meeting, which had been called by Ross-shire MP Ian Blackford, SSE agreed to delay work to the summer months so it could carry out the project at night and make use of the lighter evenings. This helped to ensure the road stayed open during the busy daytime period.
Mr Blackford said: "In addition to the reduced traffic disruption due to overnight working, the better weather has also allowed the operation to be carried out in almost half the time allowed for it.
"I am delighted to have played a role in this, which is a good demonstration of what can be achieved when those carrying out the work actually take note of what is being said by the communities affected by it. I would like to thank all of the companies involved for their co-operation and for the speedy way in which the work has been undertaken."
