Business leaders and councillors visited Galashiels Transport Interchange this week to view progress at the site of the works in the Borders.

The meeting also saw the launch of the Scottish Borders Business Forum’s new websitem while those present heard that the work on the interchange is on schedule and on budget.

The interchange will provide dedicated business space in the heart of the town and will include:

• Waiting facilities and café

• An interactive tourist information point

• Real time information for trains and buses

• Accessible shower and cycle lockers to promote cycling and walking to the transport hub

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The facilities aim to promote the use of sustainable transport and encourage commuters away from vehicle travel on the A7 to Edinburgh.

The £5.2m project is being delivered on site by development partner Hub South East Scotland and contractor Morrison Construction.

It is being financed by the Scottish Borders Council and the European Regional Development Fund, which is providing £1.8m of funding, and is scheduled to open prior to the railway in September 2015.

Jack Clark, chairman of Scottish Borders Business Forum, said: "I am delighted to be able to visit the Transport Interchange today, which will provide 21st century integrated transport facilities for the Borders and will bring economic benefits for businesses and the communities they serve.

"With the return of the railway next September, this is a time of opportunity for the business community, and the Scottish Borders Business Forum is the united voice of the sector in the region.

"The forum represents more than 40 associations, including those involved in tourism, construction, farming, education and creative industries, and this enables the business industry to speak with one voice both within and outwith the region."

(IT/CD)