DRIVERS are being diverted after severe weather left a gaping hole in a section of the A68.

The damage, between Pathhead and Fala Dam, was caused in the early hours of August 12.

Amey, which looks after Scotland’s trunk roads, says a full closure is in place at the affected location.

Drivers are being encouraged to follow a signed diversion route.

An Amey spokesperson said: “Northbound traffic will be diverted to the A6091 and at the junction with the A7 will travel via Galashiels, Stow and Fountainhall.

“From here, vehicles will join the B6458 to re-join the A68 at Tynehead junction.

“Southbound traffic will follow the same diversion in the opposite direction.

“This diversion route is 25.6 miles. Please allow extra time for your journey.”

Joanne Turner, Amey’s principal civil engineer with the “south east trunk roads unit”, said: “Geotechnical investigations into the extent of the damage and the necessary repair are ongoing, and further updates will be provided by Transport Scotland and the relevant operating company.

“A timeframe for the repair will be developed once investigations are completed and more information will be provided in due course.”