Network Rail warns of disruption ahead on the Borders Railway
'It's amongst the noisiest activities we do...'
Last updated 18th Feb 2026
Work's set to get underway this weekend on the first stage of electrification on the Borders Railway.
But passengers are being warned of disruption ahead - with no train services to run between Tweedbank and Newcraighall on Sundays, March 15th, 22nd and 29th.
Some late-evening Saturday and early-morning Monday trains on those weekends will also be replaced by buses.
Mark Ilderton, ScotRail Service Delivery Director, said: “The electrification of sections of Borders Railway is an important step in paving the way for new, greener trains and delivering a more modern railway for the communities we serve.
“These early works mark real progress towards introducing new trains, which will offer customers a quieter, smoother, and more environmentally sustainable journeys along the route.
“We know that electrification works can cause inconvenience to customers, so we’re working closely with Network Rail to keep customers informed and will provide clear alternative travel arrangements so customers can continue to travel with confidence when the project is underway.”
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From Saturday (February 21st), engineers will begin preparing the ground for piling works on sections of the route to be electrified between Newcraighall and Shawfair, and from Bowshank Tunnel to Tweedbank station.
Piling involves driving steel foundations into the ground to support the masts and cantilevers that will carry the future overhead line equipment.
Network Rail says it's one of the noisiest activities it does on the railway, but adds it plans to install most piles using a vibration technique to minimise the disturbance on people living near the line.
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In a letter to neighbours, a spokesperson said: "At certain locations and subject to ground conditions, hammer-piling may be required to complete the works.
"Following the piling, we will then install the steel masts or stanchions that will provide the required support for the new overhead line equipment.
"We will make every effort to minimise any unnecessary noise and disturbance from lighting or vehicle movement and those working on site are briefed on working responsibly in the local community."
The nature of the work means it can only be carried out safely when trains aren’t running, with much of the seven-month programme of works taking place overnight.
A temporary compound is to be set-up on vacant land opposite the Cartech garage.
Lynsey Maclean, scheme project manager at Network Rail Scotland, said: “The Borders Railway was rebuilt with future electrification in mind, which means we can deliver this work with far less intrusive engineering than is required on many older parts of the network, where we often need to lower track or raise bridges.
"The infrastructure here is already suitable for this next stage of modernisation.
“We’re grateful to customers and local residents for their patience while we complete this phase of the project. Electrification will deliver long‑term benefits for the Borders, and this work marks an important milestone in creating a cleaner, more reliable and more sustainable railway for the future.”
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