Diversion in place while flood wall built

11/01/16. TSPL Shift. SELKIRK: Picture shows ongoing flood prevention work on the river Ettrick. Environment Minister Dr Aileen McLeod visited to the Selkirk Flood Protection Scheme where she launched the first national plan and meet with representatives from SEPA and the local council. Picture Ian Rutherford

The route via Level Crossing Road should be used while a section of Dunsdale Haugh is closed for 20 weeks, starting on Tuesday, May 3.

The closure will allow a flood protection wall to be constructed between the Shaw Burn and Dunsdale Haugh. A new culvert will also be installed under the road.

The existing road network in the Riverside area has been upgraded with new sections of link road constructed in an effort to minimise disruption to residents and businesses. This will allow traffic to use the local diversion route via Level Crossing Road, with further routes into Riverside Road for local access only.

The £31.4million Selkirk Flood Protection Scheme, which will protect almost 600 properties against a major flood, is due to be completed by the end of this year.

Scottish Borders Council executive member for roads and infrastructure, councillor Gordon Edgar, said: “It is also worth adding that the businesses in the Dunsdale Haugh area remain open for business throughout the road closure.

“Selkirk Flood Protection Scheme is now less than a year from completion and will offer long-term protection to large areas of the town. The effectiveness of the Scheme has already been proven during the recent winter storms.”

Work on Selkirk Community Recycling Centre – which was closed to allow the diversion route to pass through its old site – is progressing well with the facility due to be opened in late June. Until then, Selkirk residents can use SBC’s six remaining recycling centres.