Works to create a new civic space in Cornmill Square, Galashiels, is well underway, the local authority has said.

The work commenced earlier this month and is part of the Galashiels Inner Relief Road improvements.

Originally opened in 1913, Cornmill Square was constructed following the removal for a former mill was located on the site. The enhancements now being carried out will allow both residents and visitors to enjoy the iconic fountain and other prominent features within the town. Other elements of the programme have seen traffic removed from the town centre. Subsequently, this has allowed road space to be given back to the local community by widening footpaths, creating more on-street parking, establishing designated loading bays and having easier pedestrian crossing points.

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Councillor Gordon Edgar, Scottish Borders Council's Executive Member for Roads and Infrastructure, said: "It has taken a lot of work to reshape Galashiels to change the priority of the town centre towards local residents, shoppers and businesses.

"The work is now paying off with the completion of Market Street which includes additional on-street parking. Market Square is a gateway to the heart of the town from the newer developments while the Channel Street Plaza is a new event space with a community power supply, and we now have the start of the Cornmill Square works.

"The safer and improved infrastructure will complement the surroundings but more importantly provide the community with opportunities to attract more footfall into the town centre.

"I would also like to remind people that although works are underway at Cornmill Square, pedestrian access has and will be maintained to all local businesses until the works are complete in April."

(JP/IT)