Scheme assessment process

The preparation and development of trunk road projects follows the assessment process set out in the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB). This is considered standard good practice and used throughout the UK.

This three-stage assessment process considers engineering, environment, traffic and economic criteria.

As an integral part of the process, Transport Scotland has and will continue to consult with a diverse range of stakeholders, local communities and interested parties, including, environmental, public transport and active travel groups.

The DMRB Stage 1 assessment of the Access to Argyll and Bute (A83) scheme was completed in April 2021.

The preferred route for the permanent, long-term solution was announced in Spring 2023 and is available for you to view. The preferred route announcement marks the conclusion of the DMRB Stage 2 assessment process.

The next step is to progress the DMRB Stage 3 assessment of the preferred route, which is now underway.

Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) Process

Stage one (complete)

Preliminary Engineering Study and Strategic Environmental Assessment – identification of broad improvement strategies.

Stage two (complete)

Route option assessment and identification of preferred route

Stage three

Development and assessment of preferred route

Stage four - Statutory process

Publication of draft Road and Compulsory Purchase Orders and Environmental Impact Assessment Report Public Local Inquiry (if required)

Stage five

Procurement

Stage six

Construction