Action getting closer on re-opening of Galashiels in the Borders?

[rjhowie]

It was reported in the (Glasgow) Herald in a full article that a price had been set by the Scottish Government for the re-opning of the passenger service to Galashiles and just beyond as far as Tweedale. Because previously 2 of the then 3 bidders had withdrawn the process had to be started again. Now if the winner can work within the price then it will go ahead with government cash and the rest from Network rail. There will be 9 stations and the trackbed and bridges all extant so there is no reason the work cannot start although 2014 for completion may be a little sharp a date.

This has been drawn out but is still supported although Transport Scotland had been hoping for an independent maintenance outside of Network Rail. So another re-opening line for First Scotrail in the pleasant Borders area.

 

[masontaylor]

I once walked from Stow (in Wedale) down to Galashiels way back in the mid-70s, a route that ran parallel to what was then already a very dead railway line, and loved the scenery. I've driven it a few times since then when commuting between Tayside and Tyneside or Wearside for occasional engagements, and its appeal has never diminished. Really looking forward to being able to see it from a train, and hope that the revived railway may help to introduce newcomers to the glories of the Borders, which relatively few visitors to Scotland ever see, now that the major trunk routes are more or less confined to their eastern and western extremities.

*

 

[rjhowie]

Thanks for that Mason and I see you're a walker like me.

Some years ago I led a Boys' Brigade Camp to Melrose two years running. One of my officers and I (being the captain and boss!) walked the viaduct at Melrose. We also walked right into Glashiels too (as well as doing the Eildons and their wonderful summer view). What surprised me in particular was how intact the station was and for a chunk of the walk, ballast. All the blue sausage BR signs for booking office, waiting rooms, etc. As you know only too well there was once a goddly spread of railways in the Borders and getting this line back is something at least. The sadder thing is that the line after Melrose went right across to Carlisle over the Border. There was an attempt at closure for a preservation society but ifI recall right BR refused. When the line is re-opened I will be on it as it will be a beautiful run. Wish they would just speed up the contractor side and get the tracks back down. After all with so much intact it should be reasoably straightforward!

 

[masontaylor]

[Bump]


Latest news....

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-south-scotland-20218603

 

[rjhowie]

Yes, Mason, seen tat in a paper but good to have it shown here. Funnily, i think that the picture is of Melrose Station where the line won't reach! When it was announced one local Borders lady who was very much an activist (and no chicken either) said she hoped that others in towns further down where it used to go across to Carlisle should campaign. Anywa,y I do hope they manage to keep to the opening timetable and they might beat the Edinburgh tram all things considerd! As I indicated with little obstruction there should be no major probelms in this latest re-opening in Scotland.

Bobby