A BORDERS road will be temporarily closed for more than three months to allow for further flood protection works.

Mansfield Road in Hawick will be temporarily closed from Monday, February 13 for 14 weeks for works associated with the Hawick Flood Protection Scheme.

During the closure, which is expected to be in place until mid-May, motorists and pedestrians will be diverted via Burnfoot, and a temporary pedestrian crossing will be installed at the Burfoot Community Hub near to the post office and local shops.

The closure allows for the first phase of necessary construction work to be completed on a large section of floodwall along the road between the Scottish Borders Council (SBC) Mansfield Road Depot and the town's water treatment works.

This section of floodwall will then connect to the recently constructed floodwall at the Hamilton Road roundabout.

Executive Member for Environment & Transport Jenny Linehan, said: “Whilst I know this road closure will temporarily disrupt locals, it is necessary to ensure this significant section of flood wall is installed properly and safely.

“I would like to apologise in advance to residents of the local community for any inconvenience caused during this period and thank you for your patience.

“I am pleased to report that the work associated with the flood scheme continues at great pace with the project remaining on track to be completed by the end of this year.

“Once completed, it will be one of the biggest flood protection schemes ever undertaken in the UK with over 900 homes running along the Teviot protected. It’s an absolutely vital investment for the town of Hawick providing modern, effective flood defences whilst also providing security and peace of mind to residents.”

Following the completion of phase one of the works, traffic will be able to access the road through a temporary diversion through the Scottish Water site.

The remaining works to connect the floodwall sections will then be completed under light traffic controls.

The Mansfield Road footpath will stay over the course of the 14 weeks and access to Hawick Recycling Centre on Lower Mansfield Road will be accessible via Burnfoot.