Businesses on the Craignish peninsula have joined together to issue a “shop local” plea as they face the prospect of several more weeks of disruption due to the closure of the A816 south of Ardfern.
The vital stretch of road was buried under 6,000 tonnes of debris following a landslip during the torrential rain of October 7.
Although access to Craignish is still available from the north via the A816, it is likely to be weeks before specialist engineers make the main route south of Ardfern safe again.
Argyll and Bute Council had hoped last week that the road would be opened by mid-November but announced earlier this week that it was more likely to be mid-December.
Craignish businesses say the road closure has left them facing a fight for survival, while many still feel the effects of the COVID pandemic and cost of living crisis.
A group of local businesses led by charity Craignish Community Company is vowing to do all it can to help businesses get through the disruption.
“We might be small, but we’re open for business and united,” said Craignish Community Company chairperson Vicki Burnett.
“We’re taking a two-pronged approach. We want to keep this issue in the spotlight to encourage the local authority and their contractors to get this work done as quickly as possible and to make sure any additional support we’re entitled to comes here.
“But we’re also pleading with the wider Argyll and West of Scotland community – don’t forget about us.”
The community has been active in getting national newspapers and even radio and television news stations involved to spread the word that the peninsula is open for business.
“Many of these businesses won’t survive six weeks with no income. We are still open, we’d love to see you and it could be a great time to enjoy a deal or a discount.”
Craignish businesses including Lucy’s Cafe, the Galley of Lorne and Lord of the Isles pubs, Ardfern Yacht Centre, Craobh Haven Marina and many independent arts and crafts professionals have set up the craignish.info website as a hub so locals and visitors can stay up to date with what’s available and the latest information.
The annual Craignish Christmas market is due to go ahead on the weekend of November 18 and 19 with local businesses pinning their hopes on a large turnout.
“Communication is key,” said Vicki.
“And many of these businesses are ready and willing to do whatever it takes to serve customers through this difficult time.
“That could involve adapting their opening hours, an enhanced online offering, working together to make every journey as efficient as possible and more.
“Get in touch and come and visit – we’d love to see you.”