A BORDERS road has been forced to shut after ‘increased river flows’ caused damage to a bridge.

The section of the A702 has been closed in both directions at West Linton due to the condition of Westwater Bridge.

The damage was caused following a period of heavy rainfall, according to road maintenance and management firm BEAR Scotland.

A closure has been put in place on either side of the bridge, which is approximately half a mile south of West Linton.

READ MORE: Sentence deferred on man found guilty of sexually assaulting child in Borders

It will be in place until the damage is fully assessed, according to a BEAR Scotland spokesperson.

The spokesperson added: “North and southbound traffic will be diverted via the A701, at Hillend, and the A721/ A72 at Melbourne Crossroads. Local access will be maintained for residents up to, but not crossing, the bridge location.

“Further information will be shared once BEAR Scotland has completed a full assessment of the damage.

“Motorists are encouraged to plan ahead before setting out by checking the Traffic Scotland website www.traffic.gov.scot for up-to-date travel information and allowing extra time for their journey.”