The scheme will then utilise both day and night shifts, when feasible and allowable, for 12 weeks.
During Phase 1, several vehicles did not follow temporary traffic signs, through the roadworks and diversion route, and risking collision with other vehicles - putting other road users and themselves at risk. Police Scotland charged two motorists and cautioned or identified a further six during this phase of this scheme.
Changes have been made to further clarify the diversion routes, and additional signage will be in place for Phase 2, but road users are being urged to follow the signed diversion route to ensure the safety of road workers and the travelling public.
A Police Scotland spokesperson, said: "During the last repairs carried out at Galafoot Bridge, a small number of motorists decided to ignore the diversions and closures. This is not only inconsiderate but extremely dangerous. During this second phase of repairs, the police will be taking a zero-tolerance approach and any driver caught committing offences will be charged and reported to the Procurator Fiscal."
Phase 1 of the scheme to repair the westbound carriageway was completed on Sunday 18 November 2018, with the scheme divided into two phases to allow for the road to re-open over the festive period.
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Over 5% of the volume of the reinforced concrete deck structure of the bridge was repaired on the westbound carriageway during Phase 1, and the Phase 2 scheme allows for a similar level of repair to be undertaken on the eastbound carriageway.
Galafoot Bridge will remain open as normal to traffic travelling Westbound. Eastbound traffic will be diverted via the A7 to the B6360 Abbotsford to Tweedbank. Lowood Bridge will remain open throughout the works, with some adjustments to traffic signal timings to assist in reducing congestion.
Emergency services will use the B6360 Abbotsford to Tweedbank route, unfortunately this route is not suitable for HGV's, which will be directed via Selkirk and St Boswells (A7, A699, A68). A limited number of operations will require the full bridge to be closed, such operations will be undertaken overnight with all traffic being diverted via A7, A68, A699. These closures will be advertised on the Variable Message Signs located on the A7 in Galashiels, Selkirk & A68.
This essential work, with an overall value of around £800,000, will ensure the bridge remains safe for use and fit for purpose, in addition to significantly prolonging the life of the structure and reducing the need for more extensive repairs in the future.
Stuart Wallace, Bridges Manager with Amey, the company responsible for managing and maintaining the south-east trunk road network, on behalf of Transport Scotland, said: "I want to thank road users and the local community for their continued patience as these essential repairs are completed. We have consulted with local stakeholders, including Scottish Borders Council, community councils and the emergency services and wherever possible we have integrated their feedback into the planning of Phase 2. Lessons have been learned from Phase 1 and there will be an increased workforce during this phase. However, there will be times when concrete repair works are hardening that the site may not appear manned. We intend to use signage to keep road users informed of progress.
"We apologise for any inconvenience these works may cause, but by undertaking this work now we will prevent further deterioration of the bridge, which may require a more costly and much lengthier closure in the future."
This scheme has been planned in consultation with Transport Scotland, Traffic Scotland, the emergency services, local businesses, bus operating companies, Borders General Hospital, road haulage associations, elected members and us.
