Section of A68 in Midlothian collapses during storm

Traffic Scotland initially announced that the road was closed due to flooding, but then the full picture of what had happened became apparent.

Amey South East, which maintains trunk roads in the region, said an investigation was underway into “the full extent of the damage” which took place in the early hours of Wednesday (August 12) morning.

Heras fencing has been put up and the site has been made safe. Maintenance crews are working to repair the roadway, but Amey has warned that “clearly it will take some time.”

Joanne Turner, Amey’s principal civil engineer with the South East Trunk Roads Unit, said: “Geotechnical investigations into the extent of the damage and the necessary repair are ongoing, and further updates will be provided by Transport Scotland and the relevant operating company.

“A timeframe for the repair will be developed once investigations are completed and more information will be provided in due course.”

A full closure of the A68 is required at this location, with a signed diversion route in place.

Southbound Diversion: – A68 Junction with B6458 –turn right to B6458 – Tynehead – junction with A7- turn left to A7- Fountainhall – Stow – Galashiels – Kingsknowe roundabout junction with A6091 – turn left to A6091 – Ravenswood roundabout junction with A68 turn right into and rejoin A68.

Northbound Diversion: – At roundabout junction with A6091 – turn left to A6091- roundabout junction with A7 – turn right to A7 – Galashiels – Stow – Fountainhall- junction with B6458 – turn right to B6458 – Tynehead – junction with A68 – turn left into and rejoin A68.

Both diversion cover a distance of 27.5 miles, which is 7.5 miles longer and will take approximately an additional 13 minutes to complete.

A spokesperson for Midlothian Police said: “It is anticipated the road closure will cause significant disruption for those who use the route to commute from the Scottish Borders to Edinburgh.

“Diversions are in place and we would appeal to motorists for their understanding and patience.”