A £1.2 million improvement scheme at Galafoot Bridge has been completed.

And the A6091 returns to two-way traffic from 3pm this (Friday) afternoon.

The second-phase of works, which has included heightening barriers, was expected to be completed at the end of this month.

Brett Archibald for Transport Scotland said: “This has been a significant piece of work that ensures Galafoot Bridge is fit for the future, and it’s good news to see it completed ahead of schedule.

“The scope of the improvements grew once it became clear that sections of reinforcing steel in the concrete deck would need to be replaced, so we thank the travelling public and other key stakeholders for their patience while this vital work was carried out.”

The works were originally programmed as a water-proofing and resurfacing scheme, but examination of the bridge deck revealed a significant number of defects, which required the development of a completely new and extensive series of works to replace reinforcing steelwork and concrete sections of the bridge.

The repairs were undertaken in two phases, with a break to allow for the festive period, from late 2018 and were completed by April 2019.

Tom Wallace, Account Manager with the Amey South-East Trunk Roads Unit, said: “We want to extend our thanks to the local community around Galafoot and road users, for the patience and understanding while this vital work has taken place.

“The support of Transport Scotland, local Councillors, Scottish Borders Council, the emergency services, Borders General Hospital, local businesses and the community has made these often-challenging works possible. Completing this work now ensures the safe reliable operation of this road into the future.”