Completing Borders Railway a 'no-brainer', says council convener
Completing the Borders Railway between Tweedbank and Carlisle could help remove barriers to opportunity for young people in Hawick, and surrounding areas, according to the head of the town's high school.
Lisa Scott addressed members of the Campaign for Borders Rail at their AGM in Galashiels at the weekend.
She said: "Transport links can determine whether training, work placements and jobs are realistically within reach."
The head teacher believes better rail connections could make a real difference to young people growing up in the Scottish Borders, helping them access opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach.
Saturday's meeting in the Volunteer Hall heard the long road journey from places like Newcastleton meant many young people missed out on education or extra curricular activities.
The campaign is calling for Hawick to be reconnected to the rail network as part of the wider ambition to extend the Borders Railway southwards.
Campaigners say restoring the railway could also help reverse decades of economic decline in the town.
A recent report estimated that the closure of the former Waverley Line has cost Hawick £4.7 million.
However, Marion Short, from the Campaign for Borders Rail, believes the true economic impact is considerably greater.
Meanwhile, the convener of Scottish Borders Council has told campaigners that completing the railway remains a strategic priority for the local authority.
Watson McAteer said work was continuing behind the scenes to develop a strong business case capable of securing support from both the Scottish and UK Governments.
The work will examine potential transport options, long-term socio-economic opportunities and the wider development potential of the transport corridor.
He acknowledged that the process could be frustrating for communities eager to see progress.
"All too often, the criticism I receive is why don't we just get on with this? It's a no-brainer. Everybody wants it. And I wholeheartedly agree.
"You want to see progress. Let me assure you, so do we. We are destined to move this on."
And he added: "Do I think we will achieve this objective? Definitely will."
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