Initial report on the Scroggs Cleuch landslide, Lockerbie, December 2006

This report describes the geological context, form and composition of a small rotational failure in unconsolidated sediments in the bank of Scroggs Cleuch, approximately two miles east of Lockerbie on the B7068 Langholm road. Slippage of the bank resulted in undermining of the road and associated tension cracking. Consequently the road was closed, and may need to be rerouted to avoid potential future hazards. Slippage probably occurred as a result on prolonged and intensive rainfall in the weeks leading up to, as well as immediately prior to, the eventual failure. Elevated pore water pressures throughout the substrate, a raised water table, and undercutting of the bank by the swollen burn are likely to have combined to initiate the collapse.