Official inauguration ceremony for Melrose one-way system
Friday, August 31 2007
An inauguration ceremony to mark the introduction of the one way system in Melrose and the completion of the new layout of Market Square took place today (Friday).
The one-way system allows traffic to travel clockwise along Buccleuch Street, turn up Abbey Street into the Market Square and down the High Street. The recently completed Market Square provides amenity space for the community and visitors alike without loss of parking in the town. Designed by Scottish Borders Technical Services in liaison with Scottish Borders Council’s Landscape Architects and constructed by SBC Contracts, the scheme is finished to a very high standard. This has been reflected by the comments of both the local community and visitors to the town.
Hutton Stone, located between Swinton and Berwick-upon Tweed, supplied the stone for the masonry walls and the decorative roundel on the lowest tier. Their efforts in producing the intricate copestones were greatly appreciated. Sadly, Gary Fay, the stonemason in charge of this work, died in an accident just before the last copestone was laid. An inscription in his honour was unveiled at the inauguration ceremony.
Innovative fibre optic lighting incorporated into the steps was supplied by Universal Fibre Optics of Coldstream and will no doubt prove to be another attraction when the dark nights draw in.
The functional handrails and guardrail were fabricated by Anderson Wilson of Galashiels and due to the high quality finish of the metal-work it complements the overall design of the Market Square.
During the ceremony, Scottish Borders Council Leader David Parker invited the chairman of the Community Council, William Windram, to speak on behalf of the community. Graham Barker, the chairman of the Stakeholders Group which steered the project through its trial period and during the construction of the permanent works also offered words of thanks to those involved in the project.
David Parker said:“The new Melrose Square is a marvellous asset for the town of Melrose and the Borders. The completed works have significantly enhanced the centre of Melrose and the Square is being well used by the residents of Melrose and the many visitors who come to the town. All of the works that have taken place in Melrose have made a vast improvement to the community and I am aware that there is significant local support for the completed works to the town.”
Unified Solutions.