A1 to close overnight in Berwickshire after motorists 'failed to comply' with road works
Last updated 11th Jun 2024
The A1 in Berwickshire is set to close completely overnight for the next four nights for resurfacing.
BEAR Scotland says it's been forced to make the move after "a significant number of motorists" failed to comply with traffic management which had been put in place last night (Monday) - forcing works to be suspended.
It's understood some vehicles were driven around cones and signs that were in place at Bowshiel, south of Cockburnspath, to close off the northbound lane, putting workers' safety at risk.
The announcement affects motorists travelling between Cockburnspath and Eyemouth between 7.30pm and 6am, until Saturday, June 15th.
Tommy Deans, BEAR Scotland’s South East Network Manager, said: “We appreciate the challenges posed by the available diversion routes in this area of the A1 and initially attempted to keep the trunk road open to southbound traffic, however last night significant numbers of vehicles failed to comply with the traffic management signage and drove through the site, endangering our workers.
“This behaviour occurred despite a police presence, so we have taken the decision to complete these works under a full closure in both directions.
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“Although the first night of works had to be cancelled, we are liaising with our supply chain and subcontractors to avoid the need to add any additional nights to the programme. Further updates will be provided to confirm any changes.”
A diversion route has been set-up on the A1107 between Eyemouth and Tower Farm and is expected to add 1.2 miles, or nine minutes, onto affected journeys.
Meanwhile, it's been confirmed one additional night's work will be required to complete resurfacing of the A7 between Glenmayne and Kingsknowe, Galashiels. These works, which get underway on Monday, June 17th, will now conclude on the night of Tuesday, June 25th.
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