The Planning and Building Standards Committee of Scottish Borders Council met on Monday 29 June 2026 to consider two planning applications. The committee approved the erection of 49 affordable homes in Selkirk and the conversion of a former telephone exchange near Duns into a holiday let.

Erection of 49 Affordable Homes in Selkirk

The committee approved the erection of 49 affordable homes on land east of Philipburn House Hotel on Linglie Road, Selkirk. The development, which will include a mix of houses and flats, was approved subject to a legal agreement for an off-site play space contribution and a series of conditions.

Concerns were raised regarding the loss of four mature oak trees on the eastern boundary of the site, which the council's Landscape Architect maintained an objection to. However, the committee noted that the site is allocated for housing in the Local Development Plan (LDP) and that the proposed development, while exceeding the indicative capacity of 30 units, was considered acceptable in planning terms. The committee also discussed the potential for flooding, noting that the Selkirk Flood Protection Scheme and a flood bund to the south of the site had been completed. Archaeological implications were also considered, with conditions imposed to secure a programme of archaeological work.

The committee also agreed to add a condition for the submission of further details of a pedestrian crossing on Linglie Road, which was welcomed by Councillor Sandy Scott, Lead Roads Planning Officer. Councillors Marshall Douglas, Eric Small, Viv Thomson, Sandy Scott, Aileen Orr, Neil Richards, and Councillor Simon Mountford (Chair) all spoke in favour of the application, highlighting the need for affordable housing in the Borders.

Conversion of Former Telephone Exchange near Duns

The committee approved the change of use, alterations, and extension of the former telephone exchange, located north-west of 1A Cumledge Mill, Duns, to form a short-term holiday let unit. The proposal includes a small timber-clad lean-to extension, a new entrance, and the installation of solar panels.

Objectors raised concerns about access, parking, road safety, and drainage. However, the council's Roads Planning Service raised no objection, stating that traffic levels would be modest and that road users should exercise appropriate care. Scottish Water confirmed sufficient capacity for water supply and wastewater treatment. The committee also discussed the potential for flooding, noting that the site itself is not within an identified flood risk area.

Councillor Donald Moffat suggested a site visit due to the mixed views expressed, but the majority of the committee felt that the plans and presentations provided sufficient information. Councillor Viv Thomson described the proposal as an innovative use of a brownfield site that would bring economic benefits. The committee agreed to add an informative note regarding the surfacing of the parking area to encourage a quality finish.

The meeting also noted the Appeals and Reviews report, which detailed outstanding appeals and review requests.