THE latest milestone in the Selkirk Flood Protection Scheme will see a new 90 metre long footbridge lifted into place next week.

The steel and timber structure will be transported to Selkirk on Wednesday (September 2) in three sections and then lifted into position over the Ettrick Water during the following two days.

A viewing area at Murray Place will be set up in advance to allow the public to watch the installation from a safe location.

Specific timings for the transportation of the bridge and wthe structure being lifted into place are still being finalised.

The new three span bridge is an integral part of the scheme’s flood protection defences and has been designed so it can remain open during major flood events. It is also wider than the previous bridge to allow better access for wheelchairs and buggies, while the deck itself is covered in a special treatment which will reduce the risk of slipping in icy conditions.

Selkirk councillor Gordon Edgar said: “It will be an impressive and welcome sight to see the new bridge lifted into place.

“The closure of the Bridge Street footbridge has resulted in pedestrian diversions and we understand the inconvenience this has caused. We thank members of the public for their co-operation.

“However, an improved crossing will now be in its place, which will be open even during the most severe weather.” The bridge remains on schedule to open by the end of September.

Project manager Conor Price said: “We are now eight months into the two year flood protection scheme, and I am pleased to see the significant progress made so far.

“The project team and the main contractor, RJ McLeod, have been working hard all summer to ensure that the replacement of the bridge is completed to programme and that this important link to Bannerfield is reopened as quickly as possible.” Once completed, a total of 595 properties in the Bannerfield, Philiphaugh and Riverside areas will be protected from the risk of a major flood event thanks to the Selkirk Flood Protection Scheme.