WORK will finally begin on repairing an historic bridge between Galashiels and Selkirk next summer.

The Old Tweed Bridge has fallen into a poor state since A7 traffic was diverted onto a replacement structure in the 1970s.

In recent years the local authority and the roads agency have clashed over responsibility for its upkeep.

It was a stand-off that almost led to a collapse as parts of the masonry have began crumbling into the river.

A peace treaty was reached in 2012 with Transport Scotland agreeing to the extensive repairs - and Scottish Borders Council taking ownership once the maintenance is completed.

This week the timescale of works, as well as a planning application for the repairs, was submitted by the highways agency.

A Transport Scotland spokesman told the Border Telegraph: “As part of a legacy matter following the de-trunking of the A7, and in playing our part in preserving Scotland's historic environment, we have agreed with Scottish Borders Council to undertake restoration and refurbishment of the Old Tweed Bridge near Lindean.

“As is routine in these matters, we have submitted a planning application to allow us to begin preparing for the works.

"Subject to funding, works are planned to commence next summer, and when complete the bridge will be handed over to the council to take responsibility for its upkeep.”

The Old Tweed Bridge has been shut to vehicular traffic for more than 40 years but it remains a popular route for pedestrians, joggers and cyclists.

Extensive talks have continued between the local authority, Historic Scotland, SEPA and Tweed Commissioners over the type of repairs required and the timing.

A spokesman for Scottish Borders Council told us: "An agreement has been reached over responsibility."

For 140 years the Old Tweed Bridge linked Selkirk and Galashiels.

The bridge, along with a similar structure nearby at Lindean, was built in the early 1830s by Darnick building company John and Thomas Smith at a total cost of £2,500.

Sir Walter Scott officially opened the Old Tweed Bridge, which was just a mile upstream from his Abbotsford home, in one of his last public duties before his death in 1832.

The Catergory B Listed structure has been closed to walkers and cyclists for the past year due to its condition.

Next summer's repairs will see the spandrel walls and existing over-arches removed for a new concrete saddle to be installed before the walls are reinstated.

The external masonry will be cleaned and repointed with traditional grout.