A MAJOR road will be closed in both directions after a “significant” number of motorists failed to follow traffic management signage, say officials.

Works on the A1 at Bowshiel, south of Cockburnspath, had to be suspended last night due to the issue. 

It will now be closed in both directions between 7.30pm and 6am until Saturday (June 15), with a diversion route signposted between Eyemouth and Tower Farm following the A1107. This diversion will add around nine minutes and 1.2 miles onto affected journeys.

Tommy Deans, BEAR Scotland’s south east network manager, said: “We appreciate the challenges posed by the available diversion routes in this area of the A1 and initially attempted to keep the trunk road open to southbound traffic, however, last night significant numbers of vehicles failed to comply with the traffic management signage and drove through the site, endangering our workers.

“This behaviour occurred despite a police presence, so we have taken the decision to complete these works under a full closure in both directions.

“Although the first night of works had to be cancelled, we are liaising with our supply chain and subcontractors to avoid the need to add any additional nights to the programme. Further updates will be provided to confirm any changes.”