A BUSY Borders road will close overnight next week to facilitate resurfacing work.

The A68 is set to benefit from an improved road surface, with a night of improvement works scheduled for the May 9 2023.

The works will see Transport Scotland’s operating company, BEAR Scotland resurface 230 metres of carriageway, creating smoother and safer journeys for motorists.

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To ensure the safety of roadworkers and the public during these works, the A68 will be closed in both directions between the A698 at Ancrum and the A6088 at the English border, for one night. The road will be closed from 19:30 until 06:00 on 9 May.

A signed diversion route will be in place via the A698 and the A6088, adding an estimated 10 miles and 15 minutes to affected journeys.

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Emergency services will be given access through the works at all times and local access for residents within the closure points will be maintained when it is safe to pass through the work area.

Relevant stakeholders have been consulted in advance to make them aware of the plans.

Tommy Deans, BEAR Scotland’s South East Network Manager, said: “These surfacing improvements will help to address the defects on this section of the A68 and will improve the experience for motorists.

“It is essential for safety that we close the road during these works, however we’ve arranged for the project to take place overnight to minimise the impact.

“We thank motorists and the local community in advance for their patience and understanding. We’ll do all we can to complete the work as quickly and safely as possible.”

Real time journey information is available from Traffic Scotland on www.traffic.gov.scot, or on Twitter at @trafficscotland.

All work is weather dependent and subject to postponement or cancellation in the event of adverse conditions.