COMMUTERS on the Borders Railway are now able to grab a coffee or use the loo at Tweedbank station.

On Friday, the eagerly awaited Customer Hub was opened to the public, which has seen two jobs created and the installation of an accessible public toilet.

The move comes after more than a year of complaining by commuters over the lack of facilities.

The retail outlet is operated by local business Born in the Borders and will serve a selection of food and drink to passengers and will be open seven days a week from 5.45am weekdays.

John Henderson, owner of Born in the Borders, said: “Following our success in the Galashiels transport interchange, we are delighted to continue our adventure along the railway.

“We are very much looking to bringing a taste of the borders to the local community in Tweedbank, commuters, and tourists alike.”

The plans were revealed in November and have been popular with rail bosses and travellers alike.

Chris Hassall, The ScotRail Alliance’s head of retail and revenue development, added: “The opening of this new customer hub at Tweedbank will further enhance the experience of customers travelling on Scotland’s newest railway line.

“It brings the very best in local produce to commuters and tourists alike, as well as underlining our commitment to the area and supporting Scottish suppliers.”

Installation of the new facilities was jointly funded by Transport Scotland and the train operator through the franchise; as well as the Scottish Government, through the Borders Railway Blueprint Partnership.

And David Parker, leader of Scottish Borders Council says this is just one of the things being done this year to improve the railway.

He said: “This new customer hub will be a hugely welcome addition for users of Tweedbank Station.

“For the first time, the thousands of commuters and visitors using the station every year will have access to toilet facilities as well as refreshments and food from award-winning Born in the Borders, who will provide quality products and excellent customer service.

“There are other positive announcements to come in 2017, which will aim to maximise the economic benefits the Borders Railway offers.”

Local MSP Christine Grahame added: “Having stopped by Tweedbank Station, I’m delighted to see so much interest in the facilities already. It really goes to show how much they were needed, especially in a station which has very few amenities nearby.”