Hawick to Center Parcs to Selkirk path – pricey or practical?

Scottish Borders Council is considering the creation of a new £12 million pathway designed to connect the towns of Selkirk and Hawick with the upcoming Center Parcs holiday village, set to be the first of its kind in Scotland. This ambitious route, running largely alongside the busy A7 road, aims to promote active travel options such as walking, cycling, wheeling, and horse riding. With projections suggesting that daily commuting between the two towns could more than double once the holiday resort opens, the Council views the path as a practical addition to the area’s infrastructure.

However, the proposal has divided opinions among local residents. Supporters see it as a positive development that could encourage healthier travel habits and potentially stimulate local tourism. Derek Angelis from Galashiels expressed optimism, hoping the project could be a stepping stone to expanding the region’s network of multi-use paths. “I think that any multi-use path linking towns in the Scottish Borders is a good thing,” he commented, adding that similar improvements are needed on other dangerous roads nearby.

Conversely, critics question both the route’s location and its financial feasibility. Bryan Hoggan, an avid hillwalker from Selkirk, criticized the pathway for being placed beside one of Scotland’s busiest roads, arguing that walkers prefer secluded and peaceful environments away from traffic noise. He also pointed out the existence of The Abbey Way, a quieter, tree-lined alternative, and suggested that upgrading existing paths would be a more cost-effective solution. Businessman Craig Douglas echoed concerns over the steep price tag, which some estimates put as high as £17 million, stating, “Anything that benefits the area and the local economy has to be welcomed but the price tag of £12m seems excessive.”

Other voices in the community reflected similar doubts. Judith Douglas, who frequently walks between Hawick and Selkirk along the Borders Abbey Way, also favored enhancing existing paths over constructing a new one near busy traffic routes. Meanwhile, David Cumming from Tweedbank expressed enthusiasm for the project, highlighting the potential for future links that could boost cycling tourism and benefit local commuters. The Council is actively consulting the public on the proposal, aiming to incorporate community feedback into the final plans. The intended timeline schedules the segment between Hawick and the holiday village to be developed in time for Center Parcs’ opening in 2029, with the extension to Selkirk to follow thereafter

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