AVERAGE speed cameras are to be installed on a notorious stretch of the A82 along Loch Lomondside, the Scottish Government has announced - but they'll only be in place temporarily.

The Scottish Safety Camera Programme, in partnership with Police Scotland and the Highland Council, is supporting the short term installation of low-carbon fuelled average speed cameras on the trunk road at Luss. 

It's one of two locations where average speed cameras will be deployed during the busy summer season - the other is on the A836 in Caithness, between Reay and Thurso.

Transport Scotland says both locations have been identified as having increased traffic volumes and issues with speeding during the summer period - something which will come as no surprise to regular users of the A82 between Arden and Tarbet.

In addition, 14 new electric safety camera vans will join the fleet with deployment across Scotland also scheduled for this summer.

Transport secretary Fiona Hyslop said: “Road safety is one of the Scottish Government’s top priorities and I remain resolute in my determination to save lives on the country’s roads.

“The deployment of temporary average speed cameras on the A836 and A82 will help us achieve that.

"Both locations see a significant rise in traffic over the summer months and persistent speeding cases.

"We have seen the success of average speed cameras on the A9 in terms of encouraging improved driver behaviour and are looking to replicate it on these routes.

“The new electric safety camera vans will replace older vehicles and help bolster the fleet, as well as our green credentials.

“Both the temporary average speed cameras and the safety camera vans will help us work towards our long-term vision of no-one being killed or seriously injured on Scotland’s roads by 2050."

Kenny Auld, head of visitor services at the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park Authority, said: “We welcome this trial and hope that this work creates a safer road and visiting experience for our visitors and residents.

"Whether by car, bus, walking or wheeling, it is important that everyone feels safe whilst enjoying this special landscape.”

Chief Inspector Mark Patterson from Police Scotland said:  “Police Scotland, and our Safety Camera Unit, are committed to working with our partners in order to influence driver and road user behaviour and reduce casualties.

"With the expected increase in traffic volume over the upcoming holiday period, the implementation of these new temporary average speed cameras are part of a crucial partnership response to improving road safety."