Borders Railway electrification works extended to December, with residents warned of overnight noise
Last updated 28th Oct 2026
People living along the Borders Railway are being warned of further disruption as works to support the electrification of the line are extended until December.
Network Rail has blamed challenging ground conditions for the delay.
It says piling work required to install the steel foundations to support new overhead line masts are now expected to continue beyond the original September deadline.
"Unfortunately, it is one of the noisiest railway activities and can only be carried out at night when trains are not running," a letter to neighbouring residents states.
"To reduce the noise where possible, most piles are being installed using a vibration technique, although hammer piling may occasionally be required depending on ground conditions.
"Following this work, steel masts measuring between 6.5 and 7.5 metres in height will be erected to support the new overhead line equipment."
The work being carried out between Bowshank Tunnel, south of Stow, and Tweedbank station, is part of a major investment designed to support the introduction of new battery-electric trains - helping to deliver more reliable journeys, reduce carbon emissions and create a cleaner, greener railway for the future.
"While the electrification of the railway will bring a wide range of long-term benefits, we recognise that piling activities may cause some disruption for those living closest to the railway," the letter added. "We thank you again for your continued patience."
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According to Network Rail, the first phase of the revised programme will run from October 3rd to November 14th, with work taking place on Saturday nights, between 12.50am and 8.45am.
A second phase is scheduled from November 15th to December 7th, with work taking place from Sunday to Thursday nights, between 12.15am and 5.15am.
The work has been classified as having a high noise level.
Network Rail said each steel pile takes between 20 and 60 minutes to install, with piles spaced approximately 50 to 60 metres apart.
The worksite will move along the railway corridor, meaning individual locations are expected to be affected for a few nights before the operation moves on.
Network Rail said: "Due to challenging ground conditions at various locations along this section of the route, the work is now expected to continue until December 2026."
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