ɬ Council has secured funding from Transport Scotland to build a safer footpath along the A847 at Bruichladdich, from the distillery to the village hall, improving access for local residents.
The £204,000 project will create a 215m long footway with 240m of road widening, adjustments to street lighting, public utilities, and drainage. Works are planned to begin in December and run through until March.
This section of the A847 is used for timber haulage with future timber extraction forecast to increase. There is also a significant volume of other HGV traffic using the road from the local distillery, HGV operating centre, farming, and other developments, including housing schemes. This is expected to increase passing traffic during construction and in operation.
Extending the existing public footway will:
- connect homes with the village hall and shop/café, which act as a hub for local community
- provide safe links to local bus services
- create safer access for those houses that open directly onto the public road
- improve visibility at the Uc41 Conisby Road junction, which serves a small community and businesses
- link all the key local services; public toilets, village hall, shop/café, and housing
Councillor John Armour, Policy Lead for Roads, Transport and Amenity Services, said:
“We launched our first road safety plan in 2024 and as part of it, we committed to work with others to drive road safety improvements. I’m delighted to say that, with funding from Transport Scotland, and the support of Bruichladdich Distillery and the local community, we can make a positive change here on Islay.
“This project not only improves safety but also strengthens local connections and supports the economy. Thanks to everyone for their input and I look forward to seeing the finished scheme.”
