THE Borders has received a “boost” after ScotRail announced changes to its proposed timetable.

Initial plans would have seen half-hourly services between Edinburgh and Tweedbank run only during peak hours, with one train per hour for the rest of the day.

However, following a consultation period ScotRail has revealed that it will operate half-hourly trains throughout the day on a trial basis from May.

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Borders MP John Lamont, of the Conservatives, said: “Whilst my disappointment at the loss of direct services between the Borders and Fife remains unchanged, this update is still very good news for railway users in the Borders.

"Regular train services are essential for local commuters and more frequent services will make it easier for tourists to come and go between Edinburgh and the Borders.

“I hope to see railway use increase to pre-pandemic levels in the coming months, as restrictions continue to be eased.

“I look forward to continuing to engage with ScotRail on their proposed changes to the timetable, coming into force in May.”

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Tory MSP Rachael Hamilton – who represents Ettrick, Roxburgh and Berwickshire – added: “Alongside an increase in weekend trains, half-hourly off-peak services through the week will be a real boost for the Borders.

“I am delighted that the views of people in the Borders have been taken into account by ScotRail.

“The benefits of more frequent services between Edinburgh and the Borders will be wide reaching. As a regular user of this service, I can attest to the importance of rail travel in this region.

“ScotRail’s announcement is a real step in the right direction in helping the Borders achieve that.”

The train operators received 434 responses from customers who travel on services between Edinburgh and Tweedbank, according to a spokesperson.

The spokesperson added: “Most services on this route will operate with six carriages during peak periods and three carriages outside these times.

“The reintroduction of two trains per hour during the day will be on a trial basis only to test how quickly off-peak demand recovers and grows beyond pre-pandemic levels.”