Last week, I attended a meeting in Galashiels to discuss the extension of the Borders Railway with Fiona Hyslop MSP, Scottish Government Cabinet Secretary for Transport.
Representatives from Scottish Borders Council and Campaign for Borders Rail also took part in the meeting which provided an update on the progression of the feasibility study.
The £10 million feasibility study is funded by both the UK Government and Scottish Government as part of the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal.
This study, once completed, will highlight the potential economic and social benefits of the extension.
Extending the railway onto Carlisle has been a top priority for people in the Borders for a long time.
The current line to Tweedbank has been transformational, and it is vital that the Borders Railway is extended to maximise the economic potential of the region in communities like Hawick and Newcastleton.
It is crucial that the Scottish Government, UK Government and SBC continue to work constructively to ensure that the feasibility study is accelerated.
The business case will highlight the benefits of extending the railway, such as providing a boost to the local economy, creating opportunities for young people, and widening access to public transport.
The ball is starting to roll in the right direction but local people need to see faster progress to make this extension a reality as soon as possible.
