WORKING hours have been extended on the Borders Railway project to ensure it can be completed on time and on budget.

After years of planning and building works, the £295 million construction project is due to be finished in less than six weeks.

However, there is still lots of work to do - and rail chiefs have warned of more disruption ahead.

A spokesperson for Borders Railway said: “As we near the completion, a focus for the team is a final programme of earthworks. This will see movement of spoil between Ferniehurst (south of Stow) and Falahill where it will be incorporated into the new landscape development.

“This will involve a significant number of lorry movements over a six week period, using a route through Stow and along the A7. Lorry movements will be closely monitored and we apologise in advance for any delays caused to journeys.” April saw the last bridge lifted into place at Harelaw. The new footbridge crossing the railway connects Newton Village to the new station at Shawfair. The team has now refurbished a total of 95 bridges and constructed 42 new bridges along the railway.

“Work is progressing well at all of the new stations with platforms and amenities such as car parks now taking recognisable shape,” the spokesperson continued. “At Stow, some minor renovations are required on the station building that looks out onto the platform.

“Additionally, as Galashiels station nears completion working hours have been extended and some off-peak lane closures on Ladhope Vale are being used for the safety of workers and the public.” ScotRail is due to begin driver training ahead of passenger services getting underway on September 6. A spokesperson for Network Rail added: “The stressing, testing, welding and stabilisation of the rails to create a continuous line is ongoing. This is set to be completed within the next few weeks.”