THE Borders Railway has attracted new workers, homeowners and tourists to the region, according to the latest report.

The study, which was commissioned by Transport Scotland and the Borders Railway Blueprint Group, found it had been a "major factor" in decisions to move to the area.

And the tourism sector has also benefitted, with 23 per cent of visitors saying they would not have made the trip without the line.

Humza Yousaf, Minister for Transport and the Islands said: "The reopening of the Borders Railway was a momentous occasion for residents along its route, bringing with it economic, education and employment opportunities. This independent report provides solid evidence that the communities along the line are beginning to feel the benefit of our investment. 

"The route’s popularity was already undisputed and we will continue to work with all the Blueprint Group members to ensure that it continues to act as a catalyst for further social and economic regeneration."

The report states that the service has been a major factor in decisions to relocate to the area, with 50 per cent of users who had moved house and over 80 per cent of those who changed jobs stating the railway as a factor in their decision. 

Danny Cusick of Scottish Enterprise, who chairs the Borders Railway Blueprint Group, added: "This has been a very thorough study and it provides us with valuable insights into how the line is helping the whole region. 

"There’s also a lot we can learn as we progress our shared efforts to maximise the economic, environmental and social benefits of the line. We are determined to build on this success further in coming years to establish the Borders Railway region as an excellent location for business, living, leisure and learning."

Scottish Borders Council also welcomed the report.

Councillor Mark Rowley, Executive Member for Economic Development, said: "This report is further proof that the railway is having a hugely positive impact on the Borders.

"The study shows the railway was a key factor for many tourists choosing to visit the Borders, while more local people are using the service than predicted for work, leisure and education.

"While these figures are encouraging, there are still improvements which can be made and the council will continue to work with partners in the Borders Railway Blueprint Group to deliver a range of economic benefits. This includes encouraging businesses to take advantage of the many development opportunities available in the region, which have been opened up to a greater audience by the railway.

"Now we have started to see tangible benefits to some parts of the Borders from the railway, it is vital we now explore if we can extend these benefits to other areas, such as Hawick and beyond," he added.

"Extended rail could be a huge boost here, so we welcome Transport Scotland’s feasibility study into extending the line to Carlisle and we will work hard to develop the strongest possible case for expansion."

View the report here: https://www.transport.gov.scot/publication/borders-railway-year-1-evaluation-pdf/