A BRIDGE linking Melrose and Galashiels is to close for a week later this month.

Investigatory work on Lowood Bridge will require a full closure for five days - between Monday, July 17 and Friday, July 21 - from 9am to 4pm.

The closure is needed to ensure that the first phase of repair and strengthening works on the bridge – which is due to take place in late summer/early autumn 2017 – is carried out safely.

The overall £640,000 project is due to be completed in 2018/19.

Councillor Gordon Edgar, who is the spokesman for roads, said: “The council has made an effort to minimise the impact of this essential closure of Lowood Bridge, by restricting it to the day-time and scheduling it to take place during school holidays when roads are quieter.

“The investment in Lowood Bridge, alongside a number of other bridges in the Borders, will ensure these vital structures can continue to be used for years to come.”

Diversions signs will be in place, with the alternative route via the A6091, A7 through Galashiels and B6374.