Train services unaffected as seven-month vegetation clearance project begins on Borders Railway

A 30-mile stretch of the railway between Newcraighall and Tweedbank will be cleared of overgrown trees and vegetation from next week.

Train services will be unaffected as Network Rail begins managing trees within falling distance of the track on the Borders Railway from Monday 2 September until 31 March next year.

The team will also treat noxious and invasive non-native weeds within the railway corridor while clearing a three-metre strip from the outside rail to the boundary of all woody material.

This work is vital to keeping the line running safely and reliably for passengers.

Environmental surveys have already been completed and specialist ecologists have inspected the area for nesting birds and protected species to minimise the work’s impact on wildlife and the wider environment.

Rochelle McAllister, scheme project manager, Network Rail Scotland, said: “Network Rail manages thousands of miles of trees and vegetation along the railway to ensure that everything which grows lineside is safe and does not cause delays to trains.

“Through the management of lineside trees and vegetation, Network Rail aims to protect the safety of the operational railway line. This keeps passengers safe and reduces risks for lineside neighbours.

“Elements of this work are unavoidably at night for safety reasons; however, the teams are always mindful of the impact their work may have and will do what they can to minimise this.  We want to thank neighbours in advance for their patience and understanding while the work is carried out.”

Heritage, landscape and specimen trees will be considered on a case-by-case basis and will be retained where it is safe to do so.

Those living closest to the line have been advised about the work by letter which includes a FAQs section which aims to address concerns they may have.

Further information on tree and vegetation clearance can be found here: https://scotlandsrailway.com/managing-trees-and-vegetation-in-your-area

Those with questions or concerns about this work can contact Network Rail’s 24hr National helpline on 03457 11 41 41.