Following recent confirmation from the Department for Transport and drawing on the first tranche of the up to £10 million committed by the Scottish Government and UK Government through the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal, this stage unlocks the funding to appoint a Project Manager for work to assess the benefits and challenges of extending the line beyond Tweedbank.

The development of the business case for the Borders Railway is a key project within the Borderlands Deal which recognises the potential of such a link to support economic growth.

Following the success of the re-instatement of the Borders Railway to Tweedbank, an extension could improve transport links to towns such as Hawick, which continue to face the effects of recent economic downturns, as well as offering improved connectivity for tourists, commuters and residents alike. Extending the railway through the heart of the Borderlands could also provide more environmentally friendly transport connections for the places and towns along the route.

UK Government Scotland Office minister Kirsty McNeill said: “Growth is a priority mission for the UK Government and we’ve been clear that the £450m Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal spanning southern Scotland and northern England is vital to achieving this.

“It’s great news that the UK Department for Transport has now confirmed up to £5m towards feasibility work to explore the potential to extend the Borders Railway from Tweedbank to Carlisle. We look forward to working with deal partners as the feasibility work progresses.

“The UK Government is focused on delivering our Plan for Change to turbo-charge economic growth and deliver a decade of national renewal and opportunity for all. This includes investing nearly £1.4 billion into important local projects across Scotland over the next ten years, including the borders.”

Cabinet secretary for transport, Fiona Hyslop, added: “The Scottish Government believes in strong investment in public transport and looks forward to the 10th anniversary of the Borders railway later this year, which will be a celebration of the transformation it has delivered to this region.

“We remain committed to providing up to £5m for this business case work as part of our £65m investment in the region through the Borderlands deal.  We welcome the news that the UK Government will now match our commitment of up to £5m for a feasibility study to extend the Borders Railway and are supportive of partners securing a project manager with the technical expertise to deliver the project well.”

Rail Minister Peter, Lord Hendy, commented: “We are working to improve rail connectivity for passengers and as part of the Government’s Plan for Change are investing in transport infrastructure, driving growth, jobs and housing across our communities.

“I’m pleased to commit to the progression of the Borders Railway extension, which would open up the route for more people to explore the region’s picturesque landscapes and rich heritage, and I look forward to seeing how the proposal develops.”

Councillor Euan Jardine, leader of Scottish Borders Council, said: “Thanks to the unwavering support of the Borderlands Partnership and their tireless campaign, as well as the crucial funding and commitment from both the Scottish Government and the UK Government, we are making significant strides towards the Borders Railway extension.

“We have already seen the positive impact the Waverley line has brought to the Borders. This collaborative effort demonstrates the power of partnership in driving positive change and transforming our region for the better.”

Councillor Scott Hamilton, executive member for Economic Growth and Developing the Borders, added: “With the confirmation of funding from both the UK Government and the Scottish Government, we are thrilled to see work looking at the proposed extension of the Borders Railway moving forward.

“This landmark project represents a significant step in improving connectivity and economic growth for our region. We commend the commitment shown by both governments and the relentless efforts of our community and partners in making this a reality. It is time to get moving and bring this vision to life for the benefit of all residents in the Scottish Borders and communities in the south of Scotland and north of England.”