Construction work is underway in the Plumtree and Netherdale areas as part of a flood defence project, the Scottish Borders Council has said.

The Gala Water flood defence project will reduce the risk of flooding to central Galashiels and Netherdale from the Gala Water.

Work commenced on site this week, and as a result, a number of temporary changes to roads and paths have come into effect and will remain in place until early 2014.

They include:

• Temporary traffic lights on Dale Street during the early part of the works
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• The conversion of Dale Street for one-way traffic during the later stages of works
• The closure of the footpath between Galafoot Lane and Dale Street
• The closure of the footpath link, including footbridge, between Woodstock Avenue and Dale Street.

The footpath and footbridge between Langlee Drive and Dale Street will remain open until further notice, while alternative routes will be signposted.

In early 2014, there will be further changes to roads and paths, but these will be advised in due course.

The Scottish Borders Council and Network Rail have said they are working together to undertake the flood prevention and railway works as quickly and efficiently as possible, however there will be some disruption from time to time.

The Gala Water flood defence project will reduce the risk of flooding to central Galashiels and Netherdale from the Gala Water. This will provide one in 75-year return period protection for the centre of the town and 1 in 200-year return period for Netherdale.

(JP/CD)