It’s a huge project; the Borders Rail Link will be the longest new domestic railway to be constructed in Britain for over 100 years - that’s an awful lot of granite track ballast! The line is set to improve and strengthen existing travel connections which will hopefully improve opportunities in the future for employment, business, tourism and leisure. Better rail connections in the area are also going to be great news for helping to reduce the increasing problem of congestion on our main roads between the Borders and Edinburgh.
Optimistic reports have also suggested that building a reliable railway line could prevent up to six road accidents every year. The project is certainly coming along apace with the rails crossing into the Scottish Borders for the first time in 45 years on 5th November at Cakemuir Burn. This is a special milestone in the project as it marked the completion of the rail installation process through Midlothian. There are now tracks in place all along iconic Borders Railway structures like the Lothianbridge Viaduct near Newtongrange and the Hardengreen Bridge.
Now the rail is in place throughout Midlothian, it can be used to transport engineering vehicles, including the special trains that are needed to complete the track laying process, which install ballast and undertaking the process of ‘tamping’ - packing the ballast underneath the rail and sleepers. Councillor David Parker, leader of Scottish Borders Council said;
“Seeing the rails enter the Scottish Borders brings home the reality that trains will be running along the railway next September. The Scottish Borders is just months away from reaping the benefits of this investment that will encourage more visitors to our many attractions as well as boost the economic health of our towns and villages.
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