Motorists face 25-mile detour as A68 closes overnight
Last updated 30th Sep 2024
Motorists in the Borders are being warned of disruption ahead as one of the region's busiest roads closes overnight.
A 25-mile detour will be in operation when the A68 shuts at Earlston at 8pm tonight (Monday, September 30th) - adding more than half an hour to some journeys.
The layby south of the filling station has already been sealed off and the catering truck relocated.
It's part of the ongoing project to refurbish and replace the bearings of the bridge which carries traffic over the Leader Water.
Transport Scotland’s operating company BEAR Scotland is carrying out the works.
A signed diversion via the A6105 and the A6089 towards Kelso, followed by the A699 to St Boswells, will be in operation until 6am on Tuesday.
Lane closures with temporary traffic lights and a temporary barrier system will follow on Earlston Bridge from October 1st until February 2025.
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A full closure of the A68 at Oxton is also planned from Monday to Friday next week - October 7th to 11th - for resurfacing work.
Restrictions will be in place from 7.30pm to 6am each night - but local access will be maintained for local residents "when it is safe" to allow them to pass through the work area.
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Dave Bishop, BEAR Scotland’s South East Unit Bridges Manager, said: “It is necessary for safety that we close Earlston Bridge overnight while these works are completed.
“Some additional overnight road closures will be required in the future. Details will be published as soon as dates are confirmed.
“If you need to use the A68 on Monday night, our advice is to plan ahead and allow extra time for your journey.
“We’re grateful to road users and local communities for their patience and understanding while these essential works are completed.”
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