A NEW path connecting two Peeblesshire communities is now open to the public.

In a bid to make the Peebles and Eddleston areas more appealing to walkers, cyclists, wheelers, and horse riders, the Eddleston Water has opened after construction was recently completed.

The project, completed by Scottish Borders Council (SBC) and its partners - Peebles Community Trust, Sustrans, South of Scotland Enterprise (SOSE), Peebles Community Council, and Eddleston Community Council - offers a 6km route through fields and alongside the Eddleston Water.

Councillor John Greenwell, executive member for roads and maintenance, said: “I am absolutely delighted that the new Eddleston Water Path has been completed and that members of the public are now making use of the route.

“This project has been a true collaborative effort, with thanks to the Scottish Government and SOSE for their financial support in helping make this project a reality and also to the Community Council’s and Trust’s from both Peebles and Eddleston for their support and tireless efforts.

“A dedicated path will ensure the safety of residents and visitors to the area whilst also encouraging others to choose more active methods of travel between the two settlements.”

The £2million riverside path was funded by the Scottish Government as part of Sustrans' Places for Everyone programme and SOSE.

Director at Sustrans Scotland, Karen McGregor, added: “We’re very pleased the Eddleston Water Path is now open to the public. 

"This new route creates a vital traffic-free space for walking, wheeling and cycling between Peebles and Eddleston, enabling residents and visitors to the area to travel actively while accessing key services and local greenspace.

"We hope the new path makes it safer and easier for lots more people to leave the car at home for short everyday journeys”.

SOSE chair, Professor Russel Griggs, added: “SOSE is committed through all we do to supporting a Wellbeing Economy and all the positive things that it brings for communities.

“The new Eddleston Water Path is a fantastic example of this approach, encouraging local people and visitors to get active and help address issues such as fuel poverty and community isolation and improve resident’s health and wellbeing.”

An official opening event will be held on Saturday, June 17, with a ribbon cutting at the Station Road end of the path in Eddleston Village at 11.15am.

Everyone is invited to attend the official opening.