A Borders Railway planning application which will see benefits to local residents of Falahill and A7 road users alike, has been submitted by Transport Scotland.

Following detailed consultation with local residents, the new proposals - which will adjust the alignment of the new railway and the A7 at Falahill – will bring a safer and quieter environment for local residents during the railway’s construction as well as make the main route to the Scottish Borders safer.

The proposals will also enhance the visual environment in the area and provide greater value for money when solving the engineering challenges the local geography presents.

Transport Scotland, Project Director Steve Milligan said: “In delivering a quality railway service for the local communities in the Scottish Borders and Midlothian, the Borders Railway project are always looking to secure the best value for money for the public purse, whilst minimising the impact on residents as far as possible. We believe the proposals laid out here are beneficial for both those living in the area of the realigned road and rail corridor, and also for road users of the A7.

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“The proposals represent a safer, more cost effective solution overall with considerably improved environmental characteristics whilst delivering benefits for the residents of Falahill.”

The proposed development involves reinstating the Borders Railway close to the old alignment of the former Waverley Railway and realigning the A7 public road, to the east of Falahill cottages. The realigned road will cross the railway using a simple new bridge structure.

The new proposals will also reduce the number of vehicle road accidents in the area. Environmental benefits that this new proposal brings includes reduced visual intrusion on the countryside and reduced noise and emissions for Falahill residents as both the road and railway are further away from the properties in this area than previously envisaged.

(GK)