Selkirk Town Centre | Potential Pedestrian Safety Enhancements Update

Transport Scotland, in conjunction with its trunk road operating company in South East Scotland (BEAR Scotland) and Scottish Borders Council have consulted Police Scotland and the local bus operator. Both have been positive and their feedback will be incorporated into the final design for the proposed pedestrian improvement plans in Selkirk.

Both parties are content with the general proposals and support the re-development plans aimed at enhancing the safety of those walking, cycling, using pushchairs or wheelchairs. The local bus company has agreed to engage on the final planning process so that any road layout changes can be incorporated effectively into its routes through the town.

Despite this, it is unlikely that work will start on the proposed pedestrian improvement plans in Selkirk until at least the next financial year – after April 2027 at the earliest.

The public exhibition and online consultation hosted by the roads authorities in Selkirk over the summer to showcase the proposed pedestrian improvement plans for users of the A7 corridor through the Borders town generated relatively few responses.

Tommy Deans, Network Manager for the South East Unit, explains: “We are encouraged by the support from the police and bus company. However, although these proposals were initiated by demand from the local community, comments received through the public consultation were not wholly supportive. It will take time to address all the issues raised. As such, we need to delay the start to works on the ground and reallocate funding for this financial year.

“We reassure the people of Selkirk that the issues raised can and will be considered in the detailed design phase. We will need active support from the community to ensure challenging issues such as legal orders can be progressed.

“We believe that this scheme can deliver real benefits to Selkirk and are hopeful that, with the backing of the community, we’ll make it happen.”