A NEW crossing to be created in Peebles is designed to persuade Borderers to leave the car at home and embrace an active lifestyle.

Works on the new shared-use crossing on the A72, at Innerleithen Road, are set to commence in February.

The project had faced backlash from members of the local community.

In July last year a group of protesters sent a comprehensive letter to the Royal Burgh of Peebles and District Community Council.

It outlined a number of concerns including: safety, parking and access, conservation and aesthetics and alternative routes.

But following appraisals and discussions undertaken by Scottish Borders Council (SBC), with stakeholders and local residents, the local authority has confirmed the crossing will be created at the Peebles Hydro entrance with a path linking into Whitestone Park.

It will link the existing Tweedbank Valley Railway path to the Tweedside Riverside walks as part of the Destination Tweed Project, as well as the proposed River Tweed Trail.

The project has been made possible by funding from the Scottish Government, administered through Sustrans Scotland’s Network Development Fund.

Councillor Jenny Linehan, SBC’s executive member for environment and transport, said: “The decision on the location of the crossing follows an extensive option appraisal.

“In person and online meetings in which feedback was gathered and considered. The main focus being on the safety of all who use this stretch of the road to cross the A72.

“The conclusion was that the proposed design and location of the crossing at Peebles Hydro entrance was the most appropriate.”

Destination Tweed features the creation of the 113-mile River Tweed Trail from Moffat, passing the source of the River Tweed to Berwick Upon Tweed where the river meets the sea.

The River Tweed Trail will be a new, largely off-road, linear long-distance route which will enable people to explore, enjoy and learn more about the cultural, natural and historical heritage associated with the river and its wider catchment.

Luke Fisher, Destination Tweed project director, said: “The River Tweed Trail is the centrepiece of the Destination Tweed project, which is creating an exciting new tourism asset that can be enjoyed by visitors and local people alike.”

Neill Malone, senior network development manager at Sustrans, added: “The new A72 crossing at Peebles Hydro will empower more people to leave the car at home by making walking, wheeling and cycling easier and safer for everyone.”

Works are due to complete in spring 2024.