This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
Listen
Milestone for Borders rail project
27/03/2007
The latest phase of work to reinstate a railway line from Edinburgh to Tweedbank was officially launched today.
Deputy First Minister Nicol Stephen was in Galashiels to mark the start of the advance works for the return of the historic Waverley Railway line.
Mr Stephen also announced that official authority to deliver the landmark project was transferring to Transport Scotland, the national transport agency.
Mr Stephen said:
"Today's announcements mark another significant milestone for the successful delivery of the Borders Railway. This is a vital project for the economy and the communities of the region.
"The railway will bring very significant benefits to the Borders, opening up employment and housing opportunities and increasing the potential for economic development.
"The re-opening of the historic Waverley Line demonstrates our commitment to keeping Scotland moving, with faster journey times, improved access and increased reliability.
"We have now agreed with the councils promoting the project that responsibility for delivering Borders Railway will transfer to Transport Scotland.
"The re-opening of the historic Waverley Line demonstrates our commitment to keeping Scotland moving."
"This emphasises the scale and the importance of the project. The national transport agency, with its expertise in rail delivery, is in the best position to drive forward the building of the new line.
"The ground investigation contract marks the start of detailed work which will see conditions along the entire 35 mile fully assessed. It is important that this work starts now to remain on track for the new rail line opening in 2011."
It is envisaged that Transport Scotland will take the lead role as promoter and authorised undertaker in delivering the railway works, with the councils retaining responsibility for land assembly, associated roadworks, car parks, bridges and other non-railway infrastructure works.
Today sees the start of a 24-week Ground Investigation contract awarded to Soil Mechanics, part of Environmental Services Group Ltd.
Information from this exploratory work will be crucial in the final design of the project.
The work will involve the sample and assessment of ground conditions along the entire length of the route from Edinburgh to Tweedbank.