ASSURANCES are being sought that plans to create a multi-million pound biking hub in Peeblesshire will go ahead.

The green light was given last year to have the ‘mountain bike innovation centre’ at Caerlee Mill, near Innerleithen.

But Tweeddale MP revealed there had been a suggestion that it would not go ahead at the historic site.

In Westminster he urged Kirsty McNeill, under secretary of state in the Scotland Office, to ensure the project would be “prioritised”.

“There has been a suggestion that the project will not now go ahead in that location,” said Mr Mundell, who represents Dumfriesshire, Clydesdale and Tweeddale.

“It is vital that we have that centre and it is vital that the mill is refurbished.”

In response, Ms McNeill said that an update on the project was expected shortly.

“The UK Government has pledged £19m for the mountain bike innovation centre project as part of the Borderlands Growth Deal,” she said. “My officials are working closely with all local partners, including Scottish Borders Council, to progress the project and I expect an update on the development of the project shortly.”

The hub is predicted to create more than 400 jobs in the south of Scotland across 10 years.

Based at the site of the former 18th-century mill, it is expected to be a ‘world-leading’ facility.

It is planned for the innovation centre to allow companies to develop innovative products and services, or even train and test athletes.

It will also offer a place for businesses to showcase their products.

The south of Scotland joined a prestigious list of world-leading cycling destinations last year after being awarded a UCI Bike Region Label.

It is the first region in Scotland to be awarded the label by cycling’s world governing body.

Earlier this week the Borders hosted the opening stage of the Tour of Britain.

Mr Mundell was speaking at Scottish Questions – a monthly question-and-answer session held at Westminster – on Wednesday (September 4).