Date: 09/10/2014

Track laying is under way on the multi-million pound rail link between the Borders and Edinburgh. The line between Tweedbank and the capital is due to open to passenger trains on 6 September next year. Seven new stations are being built along the length of the 30-mile stretch of railway. Stuart MacKay, of main contractor BAM, said it was a 'real landmark' to start putting down the track and added that the project remained on schedule. BBC Scotland was given first access to see how the operation is carried out.

External links

Borders railway track laying begins

BBC News

Track laying is under way on the multi-million pound rail link between the Scottish Borders and Edinburgh.

Related images

GBRf 66736 continuing tracklaying on the up line to the south of Shawfair Station on 7 October 2014.
Location: Shawfair
Company: Millerhill Deviation (Network Rail)
07/10/2014 Bill Roberton

Tracklaying taking place on the down line through Shawfair station on 9 October 2014 as part of a media event. GBRf 66706 Nene Valley is at the north end of the train.
Location: Shawfair
Company: Millerhill Deviation (Network Rail)
09/10/2014 John Furnevel

The first track-laying train on the Borders Railway - just before 10.00 on a dreich Monday 6th October, the Dutch track-laying train begins inching its way south from Newcraighall, propelled by a GB Railfreight Class 66. Track laying up to this point (with 60 ft rails) had been by means of cranes and other mobile equipment. Work on the new Edinburgh and Midlothian food waste recycling plant is underway on the far side of the line with Millerhill loco stabling point in the background.
Location: Newcraighall South Junction
Company: Millerhill Deviation (Network Rail)
06/10/2014 David Spaven