LISTEN: A82 Shut Over Rockfall Fears

One of the north's biggest roads will be closed over the weekend due to rockfall fears.

The A82 between Drumnadrochit and Invermoriston was shut on Thursday after rocks blocked the way.

A survey of the area has been carried out, and 2 larger boulders have been found at the top of a slope at the roadside.

The route is expected to remain shut until Monday morning.

MFR Reporter Derek Ferguson speaks with Alex Macleod from Forestry Commission Scotland about the operation to remove the rocks...

Alex Macleod, who is managing the Commission’s long-term Steep Ground Harvesting programme along the A82 said; “I have to thank our colleagues in BEAR Scotland and Police Scotland for the way in which they responded to this particular incident.

“Together with Geo-rope, our technical advisors, we are co-ordinating efforts to clear debris, assess and make safe the hillside and we will continue to work with our colleagues in Bear Scotland and Police Scotland to complete the necessary work as quickly as possible.”

Iain McDonald, BEAR Scotland’s North West Unit Network Manager, said: “We continue to work with Forestry Commission Scotland to enable the A82 to be reopened following the rock fall yesterday and although the road is now clear of debris, there are still concerns about the slope.

“Public safety remains the ultimate concern and we are therefore advising that the A82 remains closed as operations progress.”

"Initial indications are that an old oak tree fell on to a boulder field and triggered the rock fall.

"However, the Commission’s team will continue to investigate the cause as they further develop plans to stabilise the slope.

"Indications are that the work required will be technically challenging and a major undertaking – possibly requiring the use of a helicopter to airlift materials and equipment to the site.

"Two rocks (approx. six tonnes each) need to be broken up and removed before catch fencing is then installed."