Turner & Townsend have been appointed as project managers to develop a business case for the potential extension of the Borders Railway beyond its current terminus at Tweedbank to Hawick and Carlisle.

This key appointment will enable crucial work to progress on the project, including feasibility studies and an analysis of the economic impact such an extension could bring to the Borderlands region.

The progression of this work is being supported by funding of up to £10 million from both the UK and Scottish Governments through the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal. This deal aims to stimulate inclusive growth and deliver significant and lasting benefits through regeneration initiatives across the area.

The development of the business case for the Borders Railway extension is a key project within the Borderlands Deal, recognising the potential of enhanced rail connectivity to fuel economic growth. Following the successful reinstatement of the railway line to Tweedbank, an extension is seen as a way to improve transport links to towns like Hawick, which have faced recent economic challenges. It is also anticipated to enhance connectivity for tourists, commuters, and local residents alike.

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Furthermore, extending the railway through the heart of the Borderlands could offer more environmentally sustainable transport options for the communities along the proposed route.

Turner & Townsend bring extensive experience in the delivery of major infrastructure projects, including phase one of the Borders Rail, the Edinburgh Trams to Newhaven project, and the Waverley Masterplan. Their appointed project management team for the Borders Railway business case and feasibility work possesses a diverse range of expertise in complex rail, transport, rolling stock, and environmental resilience projects, encompassing both project management and engineering capacities. The team has a track record of supporting the development and delivery of high-profile projects aimed at positively impacting communities throughout Scotland.

Councillor Euan Jardine, Leader of Scottish Borders Council, commented: "This appointment is a really significant development that will allow important groundwork to be undertaken to establish how feasible an extension to the Borders Railway beyond Tweedbank and to Hawick and Carlisle is. The tireless work done by the Borderlands Partnership and the local community up until now has made this progress possible and now we will be able to make significant strides forward in clearly outlining the potential benefits an extension of the line could deliver for the local economy and the region as a whole."