The A78 Shore Road between Largs and Skelmorlie remains closed to general traffic in both directions following damage to the sea wall and carriageway during Storm Boelo on October 25. A definite timescale for reopening has not yet been confirmed.
Repairs and assessments ongoing
An Amey spokesperson, on behalf of Transport Scotland, said investigations and emergency repairs are continuing at the worst affected locations. Structural and geotechnical assessments of the carriageway and the ground beneath it are also ongoing.
“We are not yet able to confirm when the road will fully reopen. We will publish a timescale as soon as the engineers can give one with confidence,” the spokesperson said.
Restricted access for residents
A restricted access lane is operating on the southbound carriageway for residents and carers within the closure, with vehicles escorted through at a maximum of 10mph. Since 30 October, waste collection vehicles and Largs Academy school buses between Skelmorlie and Largs have been escorted through in the morning and afternoon under strict safety controls.
The lane is not a through road and remains closed to general traffic and larger vehicles. Options for safely providing more access through the closure are being considered.
Diversion routes and community impact
Through traffic should continue to use the signed diversion via the A761, A737 and A760. Routenburn Road, Brisbane Glen Road and Meigle Road are not diversion routes and are not suitable for through traffic or larger vehicles. These are North Ayrshire Council roads, and contact has been made with the council regarding the effect of the closure on the local road network.
The spokesperson added: “We recognise the significant disruption the closure is causing to the communities of Largs, Skelmorlie and Wemyss Bay, and we are grateful to residents and road users for their patience. The latest information is available at swtrunkroads.scot and @SWtrunkroads.”
