CONSTRUCTION work to create a new shared cycleway and footway south of Earlston is now underway.

The works alongside the A68 road began last week and will last another 11 weeks, with traffic lights in operation between 7am and 5.30pm, Monday to Friday.

SBContracts is carrying out the works on behalf of SBC on the 1.6km long shared access cycleway/footway which will run from Earlston to Sorrowlessfield.

Trunk road operator Amey has been consulted on the plans, with Sustrans Scotland providing the £360,000 in funding for the project which otherwise would have been spent elsewhere in the country on a different active travel scheme.

SBC’s executive member for roads and infrastructure, Councillor Gordon Edgar said: “I am delighted this work is now getting underway, which will encourage more people to jump on their bike or pull on their walking shoes and get active.

“Sustrans Scotland specifically provides funding to ensure people across the country have access to safe walking and cycling routes, which this new shared path will do.

“There will inevitably be some disruption during the works for motorists, and we would advise motorists using the A68 regularly to give themselves a bit more time for their journeys.”

In a joint statement, Leaderdale and Melrose Councillors Kevin Drum, Tom Miers and David Parker said: “This cycleway/footway will provide local residents and visitors with a great facility which will allow them to link into the local paths network that has been developed by the Earlston Paths Group, thereby encouraging more people to get active and providing more opportunities for people to visit the local area.

“For many years, local residents, Earlston Community Council and Earlston Paths Group have campaigned to see this important link established and we would like to pay tribute to the many people who have worked very hard to make this project a reality.

“Funding for the project is coming from Sustrans Scotland, and it is fantastic that £360,000 of external grant funding has been secured to deliver this project.”