THE continued closure of a popular footpath in the Borders to allow for the rebuilding of the region's rail line has been branded "ridiculous" by a local councillor.

Jim Torrace, who represents Melrose and Leaderdale on Scottish Borders Council, spoke out at this month's meeting of Tweedbank Community Council.

He complained that the Black Path, linking Tweedbank and Langlee, had been closed for four weeks when it was only anticipated to be closed for one.

Councillor Torrance said: "Colin Ovens (infrastructure manager at Scottish Borders Council) said they (Network Rail) could close it any time they want, which is why we were jumping up and down about it.

"It's ridiculous. We comaplined because it was supposed to be a week or a maximum of 10 days."

Rail chiefs apologised for the disruption this week but confirmed the path was due to reopen on Saturday, January 31.

A spokesperson for Network Rail said: "We had stated previously that short term closures of the path would be necessary, however, we have had to keep the path closed longer than anticipated during January. We apologise for the inconvenience caused to local communities during this time.

"The main reason for the extended closure was that fencing foundations have taken longer to deliver than anticipated due to weather conditions. The path will open on 31st January by which time lighting, path surfacing and fencing will be completed. This will mean that no further prolonged closures are required during spring/summer when that path is at its busiest."