A DESTINATION development specialist is looking to make a splash as part of a £25 million River Tweed project.

The scheme, called Destination Tweed, will see a 113-mile trail opened from Moffat to Berwick-upon-Tweed.

Former VisitScotland marketeer Neen Kelly has been appointed tourism business engagement officer ahead of the track’s planned unveiling in 2027/28.

She will help local businesses make the most of the opportunities provided by the multi-million pound River Tweed Trail.

A Destination Tweed spokesperson said: “Ms Kelly will spend the next eight months liaising with accommodation providers, food and drink outlets, attractions, tour companies and other businesses operating in the vicinity of the 113-mile source-to-sea trail.

“She will help them develop plans to maximise the potential economic benefits the trail is set to bring.”

Ms Kelly will work within South of Scotland Destination Alliance (SSDA), the destination management and marketing organisation for the south of Scotland.

She is set to speak to providers of facilities including lockable bike storage, e-bike charging and drying rooms. 

Ms Kelly has more than 40 years’ experience within the tourism sector and has worked on behalf of a range of organisations including VisitScotland and the National Trust for Scotland.

Destination Tweed project director Luke Fisher said: “The River Tweed Trail will provide a host of economic opportunities across Dumfries & Galloway, the Scottish Borders and north Northumberland and we’re delighted to have Neen on board to ensure that businesses are aware of the potential benefits so they have time to put plans in place to make the most of them.” 

David Hope-Jones OBE, CEO of the SSDA, said: “We are excited to be working closely with Destination Tweed to support business engagement as the new River Tweed Trail is developed.  

“The Tweed Trail will be a uniquely beautiful riparian walk – 113 miles winding its way through an incredible landscape with a rich history.”

Destination Tweed is being delivered by charity Tweed Forum.

The initiative is being delivered in stages across a five-year lifespan.

Local businesses can get in touch with Ms Kelly by emailing neen@ssdalliance.com