Border Counties Bridge

The Border Counties Railway was authorised by Parliament in 1854. The bridge was beset with problems from its construction when the temporary wooden structure erected initially to allow a crane access, was swept away by floods. The abutments at the south end had to be moved eastwards to avoid scouring of the river at its original site. Both weight and speed restrictions have always been a feature of the bridge. The bridge was reportedly damaged by floods in August 1948 and was given temporary repairs sufficient to keep the line open for a time. The condition of the bridge was a major factor in the eventual closure of the line, the cost of repairs being considered prohibitive. Regular…