D.E. Fencing, based at Charlesfield Industrial Estate in St Boswells, has secured a six-figure contract to supply and install fencing required during construction and ahead of the village opening.

Construction firm RJ McLeod has also been appointed to carry out enabling works, including the creation of a 2.5km access road. The route will initially support construction traffic before becoming the main access for guests and suppliers once the village is operational.

The appointments follow the earlier selection of East Lothian-headquartered Alba Trees, which will supply trees for the afforestation of the site.

Colin McKinlay, CEO of Center Parcs, said: “Appointing our first contractors is an important moment as we move towards the construction phase of Center Parcs Scottish Borders.

“From the outset, we have said that this project will create opportunities for local and Scottish businesses, and these early appointments are a clear example of that commitment.

“D.E. Fencing and RJ McLeod will both play important roles in preparing the site for the next stage of development and we are pleased to be working with contractors who understand the importance of delivering this project carefully and responsibly.”

Scott Elliot, owner of D.E. Fencing, said: “We are delighted to have been awarded this contract and to be involved at such an early stage in a major project for the Scottish Borders.

“As a business based in St Boswells, it is especially pleasing to be part of a development that local people are really excited about and will deliver a huge boost to the area for decades to come.

“This is a significant contract for our business and we look forward to working with Center Parcs as the project progresses.”

Jamie Corser, director of RJ McLeod, said: “We’re delighted to be starting the first phase of the Center Parcs Scottish Borders village. It’s exciting to be part of such an important project for the Scottish Borders area, and Scotland as a whole, working jointly with such an iconic client who recognise the skills and experience of our staff and operatives as well as our track record of employing local people and working with the local supply chain.”

Work on the new entrance to Center Parcs from the A7 is expected to begin shortly and this will include local traffic management at the new junction. Prior to this, there will be a temporary speed restriction in place to facilitate safe access to the site and allow free movement of road traffic.