This week in Scottish Borders:

Selkirk Common Good Fund Supports Local Charity and Addresses Tree Safety

The Selkirk Common Good Fund Sub Committee met on Friday 4 September 2026, considering applications for financial assistance and reviewing important local matters. A key decision involved a potential £1,500 grant for Interest Link Borders, an organisation dedicated to supporting individuals with learning disabilities across the Scottish Borders. The funding was earmarked for group costs to help 15 Selkirk residents aged 11-68 access activities, improve their quality of life, and boost their mental wellbeing, confidence, and social skills. This type of support is vital for fostering inclusion and enhancing the lives of vulnerable individuals within the community.

The committee also reviewed a tree condition survey for trees at Sentry Knowe, Selkirk. While the mature trees were found to be in good health, younger trees had suffered vandalism. The report recommended no immediate tree work but advised re-inspection within 3-5 years, depending on access areas. This highlights the council's responsibility for maintaining public spaces and ensuring safety, even for our natural environment.

A monitoring report for the three months ending 30 June 2026 indicated a projected deficit for the Selkirk Common Good Fund for the year, but with an anticipated improvement to a surplus by 2028/29. This financial oversight is crucial for ensuring the long-term sustainability of the fund, which supports local initiatives and community projects.

Read the full details of the Selkirk Common Good Fund Sub Committee meeting

Community Planning Board Focuses on Health, Wellbeing, and Local Plans

The Community Planning Strategic Board convened on Thursday 3 September 2026, with a significant portion of the meeting dedicated to Good Health and Wellbeing. This theme is central to the Scottish Borders Community Plan, aiming to improve access to services, reduce health inequalities, and support local action plans. The discussions highlighted a commitment to reaching those facing greater challenges and addressing the most significant negative impacts on health. Specific areas of focus included housing, early intervention screening rates, and social prescribing initiatives, all of which directly affect the health and quality of life for residents.

Updates on locality plans for Galashiels East, Bannerfield, and Burnfoot were also presented. These plans, developed under the Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015, aim to tackle inequality at a local level. The reports detailed progress on reducing anti-social behaviour, increasing youth activities, and improving public spaces, demonstrating a commitment to creating safer and more vibrant communities.

The board also received progress reports from various Community Plan Delivery Groups, covering themes such as poverty, learning, skills, economy, and place. The report on poverty noted a decrease in child poverty rates, a positive outcome of national and local interventions, though it acknowledged that rates remain higher than the Scottish average, requiring continued targeted action.

Read the full details of the Community Planning Strategic Board meeting

Live Borders Performance Reviewed Amidst Transformation Programme

The External Services/Providers Monitoring Group met on Tuesday 1 September 2026 to scrutinise the performance of Live Borders, the organisation responsible for delivering sport, leisure, and cultural services across the region. The primary focus was the Live Borders Performance Report for the first quarter of the 2026/27 financial year.

The report highlighted that Live Borders is navigating significant financial challenges, with a joint Business Transformation Programme (BTP) underway. This programme aims to secure over £5 million in facility investment and generate increased income. While participation rates in sport facilities were reported as positive, with increasing trends and planned investments in facilities like Teviotdale Leisure Centre and the Tweedbank indoor bowling centre, the report also noted a gradual decline in footfall at museums since 2023/24.

Library visits and mobile library usage also showed a downward trend after a period of increase. These figures are important as libraries serve as vital community hubs, offering access to information, digital resources, and social connection, particularly for older residents and those with limited internet access at home.

Despite these challenges, the report detailed positive outcomes in health referrals and membership rates for key programmes. The ongoing transformation programme and the focus on increasing income and savings are crucial for ensuring the continued delivery of these essential services to the community.

Read the full details of the External Services/Providers Monitoring Group meeting

This week in Scottish Borders:

Trimontium Trust Funding Decision Postponed: Will a Roman History Project Get the Green Light?

The William Hill Trust Sub-Committee met on Tuesday 25 August 2026, but a key decision on funding for the Trimontium Trust was deferred. The Trimontium Trust, a charity dedicated to promoting the story of the Roman site of Trimontium and Scotland's wider Roman history, had applied for £15,000 to purchase and build a cabin at the Trimontium Fort site near Newstead.

This cabin is intended to be a vital hub for access and outdoor learning, interpreting military and civilian life, and indigenous culture within the landscape. It would serve as a visitor reception, a muster point for guided walks, and a storage facility for educational materials. Crucially, it's also planned as an educational base for the construction of a replica Iron Age roundhouse.

The application's eligibility hinged on whether the William Hill Trust deed allowed funding for projects outside the historic Burgh of Melrose. A legal opinion suggested that the key criterion was whether the expenditure would benefit the inhabitants of Melrose, with the deed also acknowledging Newstead and Gattonside as communities intended to benefit. This means a project at Newstead wouldn't automatically be ineligible.

However, the Sub-Committee decided to continue the application for a future meeting to allow for further advice on the geographical scope of the funding. This delay means the Trimontium Trust's plans for enhancing the visitor experience and educational opportunities at this significant historical site are on hold.

The Sub-Committee also reviewed a Finance Monitoring Report for the William Hill Trust Fund, noting a surplus balance of £80,267 as of 31 March 2026, against a forecast of £97,619. Grants approved in the same period amounted to £31,788 against a forecast of £18,628.

Read the full details of the William Hill Trust Sub-Committee meeting

CGI Contract Performance Under Scrutiny: Delays in Key IT Projects Raise Concerns

The External Services/Providers Monitoring Group met on Tuesday 25 August 2026 to examine the performance of the council's contract with IT services provider CGI. The contract, originally signed in 2016 and amended in 2020, is crucial for the council's digital infrastructure.

The review highlighted a mixed picture, with several transformation projects progressing well. However, significant concerns were raised about projects marked as Red due to material delays. These include the Office 365 close and Business World to Cloud initiatives, which are vital for modernising the council's IT systems and ensuring efficient service delivery. Delays in these areas could impact the council's ability to provide timely and effective services to residents.

Key performance indicators (KPIs) also showed that KPI 25 (IA Production) remains below contractual levels, although recent changes are showing momentum. The report also indicated that the SBC & CGI Finance Model requires redevelopment, suggesting ongoing challenges in financial management related to the contract.

On a more positive note, the report detailed CGI's community benefits, including sponsorship of local clubs like Melrose Bowling Club and Melrose Junior Girls FC, and participation in local events. The company also highlighted its staffing complement within the Borders and its recruitment activities, including apprenticeships and joint recruitment planning with Scottish Borders Council in local secondary schools.

The group was asked to review the information and seek clarification, with a private session also scheduled to discuss further details of the contract performance. The ongoing delays in critical IT projects underscore the importance of robust contract management and the need for timely delivery of services that underpin council operations.

Read the full details of the External Services/Providers Monitoring Group meeting

Lauder Common Good Fund Approves Financial Report Amidst Significant Capital Investment Plans

The Lauder Common Good Fund Sub-Committee met on Tuesday 25 August 2026 and approved its financial monitoring report. The report detailed a projected deficit balance of £137,229 for the financial year ending March 2027, primarily due to planned capital investment at the Lauder Common Farm site.

This significant capital investment, amounting to £6,364,000, is a key focus for the fund. While this investment is expected to impact the immediate cash position, the sub-committee also noted healthy returns from the Aegon Asset Management Investment Fund, valued at £262,107 as of 30 June 2026. The projected investment income for the year is £12,560, with an unrealised gain of £11,593 reported in the first three months, indicating positive growth.

The sub-committee discussed strategies to improve the fund's long-term cash position, acknowledging the need to monitor the balance closely, especially in light of the planned capital expenditure. The report also indicated that £1,000 of the approved grant budget remained unspent and unallocated at the time of the meeting.

The approval of the financial report signifies the committee's acceptance of the current financial standing and future projections, while also highlighting the ongoing commitment to investing in local assets like Lauder Common Farm.

Read the full details of the Lauder Common Good Fund Sub-Committee meeting

Other Matters

The Innerleithen Common Good Fund Sub-Committee was scheduled to meet on Thursday 27 August 2026, but this meeting was cancelled. The agenda included an update on the Memorial Hall and the confirmation of previous minutes. The Memorial Hall update was expected to cover the progress of the Memorial Hall Support Group's application to become a Scottish Charity (SCIO) and discuss the scope of work needed for the Hall.

The Pension Fund Investment and Performance Sub-Committee was scheduled to meet on Monday 24 August 2026. The agenda included reports from investment managers Quinbrook, M&G, and Macquarie, as well as a summary discussion. The meeting was also set to move into private business to discuss exempt information.

This week in Scottish Borders:

Council's Contracts Division Delivers Across Borders, But Faces Recruitment Challenges

The External Services/Providers Monitoring Group met on Tuesday 18 August 2026 to review the performance of SBc Contracts, the council's in-house division responsible for delivering infrastructure improvements. The first quarter report for the 2026/27 financial year highlighted a busy period, with significant progress made on road surfacing, pothole repairs, and major projects across the region.

SBc Contracts has been busy with road surfacing, completing 11 surface dressing patching sites and resurfacing work on the A701 at Lamancha. The division also reported 447 pothole repairs using the JCB Pothole Pro. Beyond roadworks, SBc Contracts is making strides on several key projects, including Hawick High School, Lowood Care Village in Tweedbank, and the Mountain Bike Innovation Centre in Innerleithen. They are also undertaking repairs to bridges and culverts, and have begun work on Eyemouth Seawall repairs.

The report also noted the use of recycled aggregates from the Langlee facility, which not only saves money but also reduces the council's carbon footprint. However, a significant challenge identified was staff retention and recruitment. This is a common issue across many sectors, but for a division responsible for essential infrastructure, it could mean delays or increased costs if not addressed. The council is focusing on people and succession planning to tackle this.

The group was asked to note the activities of SBc Contracts for the first quarter.

Read the full details of the External Services/Providers Monitoring Group meeting

Planning Appeals Dismissed for Barn Conversion and Studio, but Garage Appeal Allowed

The Local Review Body met on Monday 17 August 2026 to consider three appeals against planning application refusals. In a decision that will impact rural development, two appeals were dismissed, upholding the council's original decisions.

The first appeal, concerning the conversion of a barn into a dwelling at Kerndean Farmhouse near Newcastleton, was dismissed. Councillors agreed with the appointed officer's assessment that the proposed extensions were out of keeping with the existing building's character and scale, effectively amounting to building a new house rather than converting a barn. Concerns about road safety and the lack of a structural survey to prove the barn's suitability for conversion were also key factors.

Similarly, an appeal for a residential studio and garage at Greenhouse Farm Cottage near Melrose was also dismissed. The development was deemed unsustainable greenfield development, out of character with the rural area and poorly related to the existing dwelling. The need for a separate access and parking, and the removal of a mature hedge for visibility splays, were cited as negative impacts.

However, in a contrasting decision, an appeal for the erection of a garage at Belses Cottage near Jedburgh was allowed. The Local Review Body overturned the officer's refusal, noting that planning permission in principle for a dwelling house on the same site had previously been granted by the same body. The reasoning was that if the access and site were acceptable for a dwelling, they should also be acceptable for an ancillary garage. This decision highlights how previous planning permissions can influence future decisions, even when road safety concerns are initially raised.

Read the full details of the Local Review Body meeting

Council Approves Culture Strategy and Addresses School Fire Recovery

The Scottish Borders Council met on Thursday 20 August 2026, approving a new Culture, Arts and Heritage Strategy and receiving an update on the recovery efforts following the fire at Newtown Primary School.

New Culture Strategy Aims to Boost Borders' Identity and Economy

The council formally approved the final Scottish Borders Culture, Arts and Heritage Strategy. Developed through extensive community engagement, the strategy sets out a long-term vision to foster identity, develop the cultural economy, and improve access to arts and heritage. A shadow Cultural Partnership, led by Live Borders, will be established to develop governance and a rolling action plan. This initiative aims to strengthen the Borders' position in coordinating cultural activity and supporting funding bids, ultimately celebrating the region's rich heritage and supporting creativity.

Newtown Primary School Fire: Swift Recovery and Rebuilding Efforts Underway

Councillors received a detailed update on the rapid response to the fire at Newtown Primary School on 25 July 2026. The affected areas, including the main reception and nursery, suffered significant smoke damage throughout the building. In a remarkable display of collaboration, pupils were temporarily relocated to Council Headquarters, with nursery provision moved to Errolston Primary School. The recovery approach prioritised the safety and continuity of learning for the children.

The estimated damage is around £240,000, but with an insurance excess of £250,000, the cost will likely not be covered by insurance. The council is now focused on the reinstatement of the school building, with the aim of pupils returning after Christmas. The swift and effective response, involving numerous council departments and external contractors, was widely praised by councillors and parents alike.

Fountainhall Primary School Closure Consultation to Begin

A draft proposal paper for the permanent closure of Fountainhall Primary School and its Early Learning and Childcare (ELC) setting was approved. The school has been temporarily closed since June 2025 due to a projected roll of only one pupil. The statutory consultation will run from 24 August to 12 October 2026, with a public meeting scheduled for 16 September. This decision marks the beginning of a formal consultation process, not the final closure.

Early Intervention Programme to Receive Council Funding

The council also discussed a proposal for an Early Intervention, Prevention and Social Prescribing Programme for the Scottish Borders. This initiative aims to help residents stay well and independent by connecting them with community support before their needs escalate. The programme will build on existing Live Borders services and expand to include physical activity, creative participation, and community support. The council is being asked to fund 50% of the programme costs over three years, subject to matching funding from NHS Borders. This programme is expected to improve health outcomes, reduce social isolation, and enhance community resilience.

Read the full details of the Scottish Borders Council meeting

This week in Scottish Borders:

Community Councils Face Funding Uncertainty as Modelling Options Explored

The Community Council Funding Review Working Group met on Thursday 13 August 2026 to discuss how support grants for local community councils will be modelled and what terms and conditions will apply. This is a crucial discussion, as these grants are vital for the operational capacity of groups that serve as the first point of contact for many residents on local issues.

The group considered four distinct options for how funding could be distributed:

• Current Grant Payments: This would maintain the existing system, with a total budget of £56,073.
• Grant Payments Based on New Population Bands: This model proposes a revised structure based on updated population figures, increasing the total budget to £59,800.
• Grant Payments Based on a Fixed Base Rate Plus Pence Per Head of Population: This hybrid approach would provide a base amount for all community councils, supplemented by a per-person payment, with a projected total budget of £67,297.
• Grant Payments Based on a 10% Increase on Current Bands: This option would see all current grant amounts rise by 10%, bringing the total budget to £61,665.

The implications of these different models are significant. A shift to new population bands or a fixed base rate could mean some community councils receive more funding, enabling them to expand their services or support more local initiatives. Conversely, others might see their budgets reduced, potentially impacting their ability to operate effectively. The report pack included detailed breakdowns showing how each community council would be affected, highlighting the real-world impact on local capacity.

Crucially, the terms and conditions for these grants were also reviewed. A key stipulation is that Annual support grant funding cannot be used to support third-party organisations through grants or donations. This means community councils will need to direct local groups seeking funding to the Communities and Partnerships Team, rather than providing direct support themselves. This could create an additional layer of bureaucracy for local organisations and may limit the flexibility of community councils to respond quickly to local needs.

The working group also noted that Scottish Borders Council (SBC) will cover community council insurance premiums, costing approximately £6,000 annually. This is a welcome support, as insurance can be a significant overhead for volunteer-led organisations.

Read the full details of the Community Council Funding Review Working Group meeting

Major Wind Farm Repowering and Renewable Energy Park Proposals Dominate Planning Discussions

The Planning and Building Standards Committee met on Monday 10 August 2026, with significant renewable energy projects taking centre stage. These proposals have the potential to shape the landscape of the Scottish Borders for decades to come, impacting both the environment and local economies.

Crystal Rig Wind Farm Repowering: Balancing Energy Needs with Landscape Impact

A major focus was the proposed repowering of the Crystal Rig I wind farm near Duns. The application sought consent for up to 10 new wind turbines, each reaching a height of 200 metres. The assessment acknowledged the proposal's contribution to renewable energy targets and climate change mitigation, aligning with the National Planning Framework 4 (NPF4) which now prioritises such developments. Economic benefits, including job creation, were also highlighted.

However, the report detailed significant landscape and visual impacts, particularly due to the increased turbine height. This raises concerns about the visual amenity of the region and the potential impact on tourism, which is a vital part of the Borders economy. The Chief Planning and Housing Officer recommended that Scottish Borders Council should not object, subject to stringent planning conditions. These conditions are crucial for mitigating negative impacts and ensuring the development is managed responsibly throughout its lifespan.

Stirches Renewable Energy Park: Solar and Battery Storage Plans

The committee also considered the Stirches Renewable Energy Park near Hawick, which involves a co-located solar farm and battery energy storage system (BESS). This development, also assessed under Section 36 of the Electricity Act 1989, aims to contribute to renewable energy generation and climate change targets.

Despite its alignment with national energy strategies, the Council's Landscape Architect raised an objection due to perceived unacceptable effects on landscape character and visual amenity. This highlights the ongoing tension between the need for renewable energy infrastructure and the protection of the Borders' distinctive natural beauty. The Chief Planning and Housing Officer again recommended no objection, subject to conditions, underscoring the council's approach to balancing these competing interests.

Holiday Lodge Park and Touring Caravan Site Proposals

In addition to large-scale energy projects, the committee reviewed proposals for a holiday lodge park near Jedburgh and a touring caravan site near Kelso. The holiday lodge park application was recommended for refusal due to concerns about its isolated countryside location and lack of sustainable transport options, potentially increasing reliance on private vehicles. This decision reflects a commitment to sustainable development principles outlined in the Scottish Borders Council Local Development Plan 2024.

Conversely, the touring caravan site application was recommended for approval, subject to conditions. This indicates a more favourable view of developments that diversify the rural economy and support tourism, provided they meet specific planning and environmental criteria.

Read the full details of the Planning and Building Standards Committee meeting

Selkirk Traffic Management Petition Referred for Future Budget Consideration

The Scrutiny & Petitions Committee met on Thursday 13 August 2026 to discuss a petition concerning a proposed one-way system on Yarrow Terrace and Mill Street in Selkirk. The petition, supported by over 300 residents, highlighted issues with traffic flow and safety on these roads, particularly due to the road's layout and the volume of traffic.

The committee heard that a previous temporary one-way system had been in place for three years and was reportedly popular. However, the council's Traffic and Road Safety Department stated there was no existing data on Yarrow Terrace and that any survey would be invalidated by ongoing A7 works by Transport Scotland and BEAR Scotland, which are expected to take approximately two years to complete. The cost of a comprehensive survey and modelling was estimated at £35,000 to £40,000.

Councillor Elaine Thornton-Nicol, Chair of the Committee, noted that while the A7 works are primarily focused on pedestrian improvements, they could have a knock-on effect on traffic flow throughout Selkirk.

Ultimately, the committee agreed to refer the petition to the Director of Infrastructure and Environment. The recommendation is to identify future budgets to undertake a feasibility and evaluation study for a traffic management scheme on Yarrow Terrace and surrounding streets, specifically after the completion and evaluation of the A7 works. This approach acknowledges the residents' concerns while recognising the practical constraints and the need for a comprehensive assessment once the wider road network changes are in place. The council also agreed to independently look into implementing marked bays on Yarrow Terrace, a measure estimated to have a low cost and potentially improve parking management.

Read the full details of the Scrutiny & Petitions Committee meeting

Council's Financial Position Under Scrutiny: Capital and Revenue Budgets Reviewed

The Executive Committee met on Tuesday 11 August 2026 to review the council's financial performance, with a focus on the Capital Financial Plan and the General Fund Revenue Budget for 2026/27. These discussions are critical for understanding how public money is being managed and the potential impact on services.

Capital Financial Plan: £9 Million Variance and Funding Pressures

The committee received an update on the 2026/27 Capital Financial Plan, which showed a projected outturn of £111.3 million against a budget of £120.3 million, resulting in a net budget variance of £9 million. This variance is attributed to new funding and the reprofiling of funds into future years for projects like the Borders Innovation Park and New Hawick High School. However, pressures of £5.6 million were identified, partly due to asbestos removal costs at former school buildings. The council is exploring funding options for the remaining £4.7 million, highlighting the unexpected costs that can arise and impact capital projects.

General Fund Revenue Budget: £2.8 Million Unfunded Pressure

A projected unfunded pressure of £2.8 million was forecast for the 2026/27 financial year, requiring management action to balance the budget. The most significant pressures were identified within Education and Children's Services (£2.4 million) due to out-of-area placements for children and young people, and within Adult Services (£0.4 million) related to joint learning disability and adult social care costs. Councillor Lee Douglas emphasised that while financial control is essential, the financial pressure must never determine whether a child receives the care, education or support they genuinely need. This statement underscores the ethical considerations that must guide budget decisions, particularly when they affect vulnerable individuals. The report noted that over 70% of the required £12.9 million in savings had already been delivered on a permanent basis, indicating strong financial discipline, but the remaining pressures require careful management.

Housing Emergency Action Plan: Progress and Persistent Challenges

An update on the Housing Emergency Action Plan revealed that while 22% of actions are complete and 75% are ongoing, challenges remain in addressing homelessness pressures and the lack of suitable move-on accommodation. Demand continues to exceed available supply, a situation that directly impacts individuals and families facing housing insecurity. The plan aims to increase housing supply and improve access to housing and homelessness prevention, but the persistent gap between demand and supply remains a significant concern for those most affected.

Read the full details of the Executive Committee meeting