Experts assess landslide damage

The A7 is likely to be shut for weeks as a result of the landslide

Work to assess the damage caused by a landslide on a major route through southern Scotland is under way.

The A7 was closed south of Langholm on Thursday as heavy rain caused a serious land slip in the area.

It prompted fears of several weeks of travel problems for the town, which local councillor Denis Male said would be an "absolute disaster" for business.

Transport Scotland said "every effort" would be made to ensure the route reopened as soon as possible.

Lengthy diversions have been put in place, making travelling by road around Langholm difficult.

First Group has given details of how buses will be affected over the weekend.

It said the X95/95 service will operate from Edinburgh to Langholm on Saturday and that a limited shuttle service will run between Langholm and Carlisle.

On Sunday, the X95/95 service will be running from Edinburgh to Hawick, and a limited service will be provided by Scottish Borders Council between Hawick and Carlisle.

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Expert assesses the landslide damage

However, the firm said these services would not cover all journeys.

The A7 is the town's main link to Cumbria and the Borders.

Mr Male said: "I don't think it is going to be an easy repair job.

"This could mean major problems for our business community, as the single roads can't cope well with heavy vehicles."

Representatives from Bear Scotland, which manages the country's roads, and the Scottish Government agency Transport Scotland have been meeting at the site.

Officials from Dumfries and Galloway Council and engineers were also expected to attend.

Working hard

Transport Scotland has promised to tackle the situation swiftly.

A spokeswoman said: "Every effort will be made to ensure that this important route for local communities and businesses, including those involved in the tourism industry, is reopened as soon as possible."

Police have estimated it could take up to eight weeks to reopen the road.

However, Bear Scotland's south east director John Murphy said it was too early to say how long the road may be closed.

He told BBC Radio Scotland: "These things will inevitably happen, particularly on rural roads where there is no formal engineering drainage system.

"We are well aware of the sense of urgency and the disruption this causes to local communities and the business communities.

"We will certainly be working very hard with Transport Scotland to make sure we get this road open as soon as possible."