The leader of Argyll and Bute Council has called on the Scottish Government to commit now to a permanent solution for the A83, after another landslide closed the key route.

More than a thousand tonnes of debris fell on to the road near the Rest and Be Thankful in the early hours of Thursday after a prolonged spell of heavy rain.

Traffic heading between Argyll and the central belt of Scotland faces a road diversion of almost 59 miles as a result.

READ MORE: A83 closed near Rest and Be Thankful after landslide dumps 1,000 tonnes of debris on key trunk road

Councillor Aileen Morton said: “The Scottish Government needs to make a commitment right now to finding a permanent solution for the A83 – no more prevaricating and faffing about, no more talking about processes and procedures, no more delays.

"The A83 is a crucial part of Argyll’s transport network, and therefore a crucial part of Scotland’s transport network, when you consider the scale of high value products, such as whisky, timber and seafood, that are produced here.

“The last landslip had a hugely negative impact on local businesses, and as well as day-to-day inconvenience for local residents, it caused problems with essential services such as access to medical treatment.

READ MORE: 'Catch pits' work completed on A83 near Rest and Be Thankful

"The council and the people of Argyll and Bute have been asking for a permanent solution for a decade.

"Enough is enough – we need an announcement today that work is starting on finding a permanent solution.”

The leader’s call follows years of weather related closures to the road, and commitment by the Scottish Government to repairs rather than a permanent solution.

Transport Scotland, the government's national transport agency, has been contacted for comment.

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