A new bridge and diversionary road replacing the Markle Level Crossing near East Linton was officially opened today (Thursday, 31 July) by Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop.
(left to right) ELC chief executive Laurence Rockey, Glen Henderson, Balfour Beatty project manager, Ms Hyslop, ELC project manager Peter Forsyth, ELC head of development Keith Dingwall, Innis Keith, Network Rail health, safety and environment director
The improvements opened to traffic earlier this month following completion of the major construction project.
Ms Hyslop was joined at the ceremony by representatives including East Lothian Council Provost John McMillan, council chief executive Laurence Rockey, Innis Keith, health, safety and environment director at Network Rail Scotland, and Glen Henderson, project manager for Balfour Beatty.
The works saw the construction of a bridge to replace the level crossing along with the creation of a diversionary road at Markle Steading.
Markle Level Crossing had been one of only two remaining level crossings on Scotland’s East Coast Main Line. Its closure removed the risk to road users and the national rail network.
The new bridge will also benefit pedestrians and road traffic by removing delays caused by lowered level crossing barriers when trains are approaching.
Planning permission for the works, which were fully funded by Transport Scotland and undertaken by Balfour Beatty, was granted by the council - who acted as project managers - in May 2023.
Important project
Ms Hyslop said: “It is great to see that the construction of a new overbridge replacing the Markle Level Crossing on the East Coast Main Line is now complete.
“This Scottish Government has maintained a strong track record of public investment in our railways, and these works will improve the safety of those walking, cycling, and wheeling near Scotland’s railway. The project represents further Scottish Government investment in East Lothian, following on from the opening of East Linton station in December 2023.
“The successful partnership of East Lothian Council, Transport Scotland, Network Rail, and Balfour Beatty as principal contractor has been vital, and I would like to thank all partners involved for their work in delivering this important project.”
Greater access and safety
Councillor McMillan, East Lothian Cabinet Secretary for Environment, Economic Development and Tourism, said: “The successful completion of this complex engineering project has been brought about through excellent partnership working by Transport Scotland, Network Rail and East Lothian Council.
“Funding from the Scottish Government has enabled the opening of the new station at East Linton and these works at Markle Steading which will provide greater access and safety for both residents and visitors to the county.”
Mr Keith said: "The decommissioning of Markle Level Crossing is a significant safety improvement for the railway and for everyone who travels through this part of East Lothian. The new bridge offers a safer, easier route across one of Scotland's busiest lines.
"It's just one example of what we can achieve when we work closely with public partners and the local community, and we’re grateful for their support as we delivered this important project."
Delivering infrastructure
Graeme Dickie, Director of Operations at Balfour Beatty, said: “The successful completion of the Markle Level Crossing replacement is a testament to the strength of collaboration between Transport Scotland, Network Rail, East Lothian Council, and Balfour Beatty.
“This project not only enhances safety for all who travel through the area but also demonstrates our commitment to delivering infrastructure that supports local communities and the national transport network. We’re proud to have played a key role in delivering this vital improvement for East Lothian.”