Investigations have established that damage was caused to gabion baskets (stone-filled cages) at Richmond Row, likely due to large debris striking the riverbank during the heightened river levels.

As a result, the council is undertaking urgent repairs in an attempt to retain the necessary protection to 12 properties in Richmond Row, 11 of which belong to Scottish Borders Housing Association (SBHA).

A failure in the wall would present a high risk of the houses being severely flooded.

Responding to the threat of further rainfall last weekend, the council worked closely with SBHA to ensure that residents were updated on the situation, and that plans were in place should an evacuation be deemed necessary.

Julia Mulloy, chief executive of SBHA, said: “The safety of our residents is always our ultimate priority.”

She added: “We are very grateful to our partners at SBC for forewarning us of this risk and we will continue to work with the council closely over the coming days.”

Tracey Logan, chief executive, added: “While we are attempting to repair the damage to the flood defence we have to acknowledge the risk that further heavy rainfall and snow melt poses.

“We have put in place a structured decision making process to ensure that any evacuation of Richmond Row can be carried out promptly and in an organised manner if it becomes necessary.

“We are continuing to monitor the weather forecast closely and remain in regular contact with our colleagues at the Met Office and SEPA.”