Hawick-Selkirk path ‘a priority’ ahead of Center Parcs opening

However, Douglas said the scheme should be deliverable.

“I think every active travel path is difficult but that is where we just have to face up to the challenges and find a way round them if the community interest is there,” she said.

“But undoubtedly there will be challenges.”

She stressed that public input would be a key element in deciding whether to take any plans forward.

“The most important voices are the community and I urge everyone take a second to fill in the consultation and let us know what you think – be it positive or negative,” she said.

“I would be pressing to have it in place before Center Parcs.

“I think – if the interest is there – we should keep pressing it to the top of the agenda.”