than a century finally began in April 2013. More than 1,000 workers excavated almost a million tonnes of earth; laid 30 miles of track on 90,000 sleepers; developed seven stations; and built or repaired over 100 bridges, roads and paths.
The project, one of the most strategic of its kind for almost 50 years, has been hailed as much more than a transport link. Supporters claim it will be a lifeline for the numerous communities along its route, bringing fresh investment, new residents and visitors.
Some 11,000 businesses already operate across the region in the growth sectors of food and drink, creative industries, sustainable tourism, energy, financial and business services and life sciences. The value of goods and services produced in the area is just under £20billion, about 20 per cent of Scotland’s wealth, and it is anticipated the re-opened line will help boost that figure substantially.
A £200 million development plan will provide thousands of new homes, at least three new schools and a large number of commercial premises to atract new businesses and jobs in Shawfair, Redheugh, Gorebridge Danderhall, Newton and Millerhill. More than 3,700 potential sites for housing and commercial development have also been identified around the Scotish Borders’ towns of Galashiels, Selkirk, Hawick, Kelso and Jedburgh.
Tourism is key to the economic development of the area. In 2013, around 4.3 million people visited Edinburgh, the Lothians and the Scotish Borders, spending £1.3 billion. It is envisaged the railway will encourage some of these visitors to venture further afield and enjoy more of the atractions and activities on offer.
Transport Minister, Derek Mackay, said: “It’s fantastic to see these iconic trains back in operation, allowing so many people the opportunity to appreciate Scotland’s countryside and railways from a unique and very special point of view, and to see them running on the long- awaited Borders Railway will be a real jewel in the crown both for Scotland’s tourism and rail industries.
September 2015
27
Smailholm tower
Galashiels (Paul Tomkins VisitScotland)
Floors Castle, Kelso (Paul Tomkins),
Common ridings event in Selkirk (Paul Tomkins VisitScotland)
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