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Borders Council: Funding, Wind Farms & Budgets
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
Borders health budget strain, new care laws
This week in Scottish Borders:
Health and Social Care Integration Faces Financial Strain and New Legislation
The Health & Social Care Integration Joint Board met on Wednesday 5 August 2026, tackling crucial issues that directly impact the well-being of residents across the Scottish Borders. A central concern was the Health and Social Care Partnership's Annual Performance Report for 2025/26, which detailed progress on service delivery and financial performance. While the report indicated good progress in implementing the Annual Delivery Plan, with 24% of actions fully completed and 68% ongoing, the underlying financial pressures remain a significant challenge.
The Board also reviewed the 2026/27 Medium Term Financial Plan, which paints a stark picture of ongoing financial strain. The plan outlines indicative funding and anticipated expenditure over five years, highlighting significant savings built into both Scottish Borders Council (SBC) and NHS services. This reflects a challenging national financial position and could mean difficult choices ahead for service provision, potentially impacting vulnerable groups who rely most heavily on these services. The report acknowledged severe financial pressures affecting health and social care services across the region, a situation that could lead to longer waiting times for essential support or reduced service availability.
Adding to the complexity, the Board considered the implications of the Children (Care, Care Experience and Services Planning) (Scotland) Act 2026. This new legislation strengthens the Integration Joint Board's role in Children's Services Planning. While it doesn't delegate additional children's services directly to the IJB, it underscores the importance of collaborative planning for the well-being of the region's young people. Officers will continue to work on whole-family support, transitions, carers' support, and locality working, aiming to improve outcomes for children and young people.
The Board also addressed the need to resourcce an Equality, Diversity and Human Rights Function. A report highlighted the risk posed by insufficient dedicated capacity to meet statutory duties. The proposed solution is to develop a proportionate function with fixed-term resourcing, costing up to £75,000 for a 12-month role. This investment is crucial to ensure that all residents are treated fairly and with dignity, particularly those from minority groups or those facing discrimination.
Finally, an update on the Scottish Borders Coming Home Programme revealed that progress is continuing, though at a slower pace than anticipated. Challenges with housing availability, workforce capacity, and long-term funding are impacting delivery timescales. Housing availability was identified as the principal factor affecting progress. This programme aims to ensure that individuals with learning disabilities and complex needs can live in community-based settings closer to their homes and families, a vital step towards greater independence and quality of life.
Read the full details of the Health & Social Care Integration Joint Board meeting
Other Matters
Integration Joint Board Voting Rights to Expand
The Board was advised of forthcoming legislative changes that will extend voting rights on Integration Joint Boards to lived experience members, including unpaid carers, service users, and third sector representatives. These changes, effective from 1 September 2026, are designed to enhance participative governance and promote inclusive decision-making. This move is a positive step towards ensuring that those with direct experience of health and social care services have a stronger voice in shaping their provision.
Audit Committee and Strategic Planning Group Minutes Reviewed
The Board was presented with the approved minutes from the IJB Audit Committee meeting held on 30 March 2026 and the Strategic Planning Group meetings held on 22 April 2026 and 17 June 2026. These minutes covered a range of important topics, including the Internal Audit Annual Plan, risk management, audit reports, the Care at Home Redesign, and the Tweedbank and Hawick Care Village developments.
Hawick festival approved, toilet security urgent
This week in Scottish Borders:
Hawick Community Festival Gets Green Light for Underhaugh
The Hawick Common Good Fund Sub-Committee met on Wednesday 22 July 2026, giving the go-ahead for the Tunes by the Teviot
community festival to use the Underhaugh, also known as the Wee Haugh. The event is set to take place on Saturday 15 August 2026, bringing a vibrant community celebration to the town.
Councillor Stuart Marshall voiced his strong support, stating, Tunes of the TV, certainly growing arms and legs over the past few years. The town, it's something now that the town is looking forward to having.
This sentiment was echoed by Councillor Watson McAteer, Convener of the sub-committee, who described it as a very successful event from a volunteer group.
Councillor Neil Richards added, It's going to grow,
highlighting the event's potential.
The festival is organised by Tunes by the Teviot,
a volunteer group dedicated to delivering community events that promote arts, culture, and wellbeing. Their aim is to create accessible opportunities for residents of all ages, with a particular focus on families and young people. All necessary event plans, security, insurance, and risk assessments have been approved by Scottish Borders Council's Place Bookings, Events, and Licensing team, and emergency services are aware of the event.
Read the full details of the Hawick Common Good Fund Sub-Committee meeting
Urgent Discussion Needed on Public Toilet Security in Hawick
A pressing concern regarding the security and maintenance of public toilets in Hawick's common good area was raised during the Hawick Common Good Fund Sub-Committee meeting. Councillor Stuart Marshall highlighted that the issue had been discussed at the Hawick Community Council the previous week and requested it be added to a future agenda.
Councillor McAteer confirmed the matter had already been forwarded and would be discussed at the next common good meeting. He acknowledged the critical need to address the problem, stating, we seem to be on this circle and we're not getting out of it to address it because it's very much a public necessity, a public toilet, and it's the last one we have. So we need to keep it.
The cost of repairing vandalism to the toilets was described as having cost the public person a very small fortune,
underscoring the financial and practical implications of the current situation.
Read the full details of the Hawick Common Good Fund Sub-Committee meeting
Borders Pension Board: Leadership, Membership Changes
This week in Scottish Borders:
Pension Board Gears Up for Leadership Rotation and Membership Changes
The Pension Board met on Monday 6 July 2026, with a key agenda item being the formal rotation of its Chair and Vice-Chair. This procedural step ensures the board's governance structures remain current and in line with the Pension Board Constitution.
The board also noted changes to its membership following the resignation of Ms K Robb. The updated membership now includes Councillor Julie Pirone (Scottish Borders Council), Mr R MacNay (Live Borders), Ms N McArthur (South of Scotland Enterprise), Ms L Murray (Borders College), Mr D Bell (Unite), Mr M Drysdale (GMB), Ms K M Hughes (Unison), and Mr A Stavert (Unison). These changes are important for ensuring diverse representation and expertise on the board, which oversees the Scottish Borders Pension Fund.
A discussion was also scheduled regarding the appointment of a replacement member to the Pension Fund Investment and Performance Sub-Committee, to fill the vacancy left by Ms Robb. Furthermore, the board was set to consider any issues arising from a joint meeting with the Pension Committee.
The meeting was scheduled to move into private business, with the public excluded, to discuss exempt information. This is a common practice when sensitive financial or personal matters are being addressed, as permitted under Section 50A(4) of the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973.
Read the full details of the Pension Board meeting
Peebles Common Good Fund Sub-Committee Considers Community Event on Tweed Green
The Peebles Common Good Fund Sub-Committee met on Tuesday 7 July 2026, with a primary focus on an application to use Tweed Green for a community event. The sub-committee reviewed extensive documentation related to this application, highlighting the detailed consideration given to proposals that impact local public spaces.
The meeting also included standard procedural items, such as apologies for absence and declarations of interest, ensuring transparency and adherence to governance protocols. A motion was scheduled to exclude the public from discussions on private business, citing the likely disclosure of exempt information under the Local Government (Scotland) Act 1973. This practice allows for the discussion of sensitive matters without compromising confidentiality.
The Common Good Funds are historical endowments intended to benefit the local communities of the Scottish Borders. Decisions made by these sub-committees directly impact the availability of local amenities and the support for community initiatives.
View the Peebles Common Good Fund Sub-Committee meeting details
Borders housing approved, Jedburgh funding boost
This week in Scottish Borders:
Affordable Homes Approved in Selkirk Amidst Concerns Over Tree Loss and Flooding
The Planning and Building Standards Committee met on Monday 29 June 2026, approving plans for 49 affordable homes in Selkirk. While the development was largely welcomed for addressing the urgent need for housing, councillors debated concerns about the removal of four mature oak trees and the potential impact of flooding.
The proposed development, located east of Philipburn House Hotel on Linglie Road, Selkirk, will feature a mix of houses and flats. The committee agreed to the plans subject to a legal agreement for an off-site play space contribution and a series of conditions.
A key point of discussion was the loss of four mature oak trees on the site's eastern boundary. The council's Landscape Architect had objected to this aspect of the proposal. However, the committee noted that the site is designated for housing in the Local Development Plan (LDP) and that the proposed development, while exceeding the indicative capacity of 30 units, was deemed acceptable in planning terms.
Concerns about flooding were also addressed. Councillors were informed that the Selkirk Flood Protection Scheme and a flood bund to the south of the site have been completed, mitigating potential risks. Archaeological implications were also considered, with conditions imposed to ensure appropriate work is carried out.
Councillor Sandy Scott, Lead Roads Planning Officer, welcomed the addition of a condition requiring further details of a pedestrian crossing on Linglie Road. Several councillors, including Councillor Marshall Douglas and Councillor Viv Thomson, spoke in favour of the application, highlighting the critical need for affordable housing in the Borders.
The committee also approved the conversion of a former telephone exchange near Duns into a holiday let. This proposal faced objections regarding access, parking, and road safety, but the council's Roads Planning Service raised no objections. Councillor Viv Thomson described the project as an innovative
use of a brownfield site
that would bring economic benefits.
Read the full details of the Planning and Building Standards Committee meeting
Jedburgh Common Good Fund Approves £10,000 for Tourism Promotion and £3,120 for Royal Visit
The Jedburgh Common Good Sub-Committee met on Monday 29 June 2026, approving significant funding for local initiatives. A grant of £10,000 was awarded to the Jedburgh Tourism Alliance (JTA) to support tourism promotion for the 2026/27 season. Additionally, £3,120 was allocated to the Jethart Callant's Festival to cover costs associated with the King's visit.
The JTA's application highlighted the vital role of tourism in Jedburgh's economy, noting that they are the primary organisation promoting the town externally. They had been unsuccessful in securing funding from other sources, leaving them with a £0 tourism marketing budget for the upcoming season. The requested funds will support their website, social media management, photography, and efforts to improve town signage and address empty shopfronts.
Dean Freeman, Chair of the JTA, emphasised the impact of recent business closures and the importance of investing in tourism to increase footfall and support local businesses. While Councillor Sandy Scott raised questions about the effectiveness of printed leaflets in the digital age, Mr. Freeman defended their continued popularity, citing examples like the Abbey's demand for physical brochures. The committee ultimately approved the £10,000 grant for the current financial year, acknowledging the JTA's efforts to promote Jedburgh.
The committee also addressed an urgent item concerning the King's visit to Jedburgh. The Jethart Callant's Festival received £3,120 to hire 24 horses for a mounted parade, a request made by the Lord Lieutenant. This event aims to showcase Jedburgh's traditions to the King and provide an uplifting spectacle for residents.
Furthermore, the committee ratified an expenditure of £1,835 on handheld flags for schoolchildren and the public attending the King's visit. These flags, a mix of Union Jacks and Saltires, cost approximately £2.25 each.
Read the full details of the Jedburgh Common Good Sub-Committee meeting
Community Council Funding Review Working Group - Thursday, 13th August, 2026 11.00 am
The Community Council Funding Review Working Group met to discuss options for the future financial support of community councils. The meeting's agenda included a review of previous minutes and actions, alongside detailed consideration of proposed changes to grant modelling and the terms and conditions of support grants.
Scrutiny & Petitions Committee - Thursday, 13 August 2026 - 11.00 am
The Scrutiny and Petitions Committee of Scottish Borders Council met on Thursday 13 August 2026 to discuss a petition regarding a one-way system on Yarrow Terrace and Mill Street in Selkirk, and to consider the work programme for scrutiny reviews. The committee decided to refer the petition to the Director of Infrastructure and Environment for future budget identification and feasibility studies, following the completion of the A7 works.
Executive Committee - Tuesday, 11 August 2026 - 10.00 am
The Executive Committee of Scottish Borders Council met on Tuesday 11 August 2026 to discuss the council's financial performance and housing initiatives. Key discussions included the monitoring of the Capital Financial Plan 2026/27, the General Fund Revenue Budget 2026/27, and balances at 31 March 2027, alongside an update on progress in addressing the housing emergency.
Planning and Building Standards Committee - Monday, 10th August, 2026 10.00 am
The Planning and Building Standards Committee of Scottish Borders Council met on Monday 10 August 2026 to consider a range of planning applications and appeals. The meeting's agenda included discussions on major wind farm developments, a renewable energy park, a holiday lodge park, and a touring caravan site, alongside a review of recent appeal decisions.
Health & Social Care Integration Joint Board - Wednesday, 5 August 2026 - 10.00 am
The Health & Social Care Integration Joint Board met on Wednesday 5 August 2026 to discuss the Health and Social Care Partnership's Annual Performance Report for 2025/26 and the 2026/27 Medium Term Financial Plan. The Board was also scheduled to review the progress of the Scottish Borders Coming Home Programme and consider the implications of the Children (Care, Care Experience and Services Planning) (Scotland) Act 2026.
Special, Hawick Common Good Fund Sub-Committee - Wednesday, 22nd July, 2026 10.00 am
The Hawick Common Good Fund Sub-Committee approved the use of the Underhaugh for the Tunes by the Teviot
community festival. The committee also noted a concern regarding the security and maintenance of public toilets in the common good area, which will be discussed at a future meeting.
Peebles Common Good Fund Sub-Committee - Tuesday, 7 July 2026 - 4.00 pm
The Peebles Common Good Fund Sub-Committee met on Tuesday 7 July 2026. The primary item scheduled for discussion was an application for the use of Tweed Green for a community event. The meeting was also scheduled to address private business, with the public excluded.
Pension Board - Monday, 6 July 2026 - 11.00 am
The Pension Board of Scottish Borders Council met on Monday 6 July 2026 to discuss the rotation of its Chair and Vice-Chair, and to consider the membership of the Board following a resignation. The Board also had scheduled discussions regarding a joint meeting with the Pension Committee.
Jedburgh Common Good Sub-Committee - Monday, 29 June 2026 - 5.30 pm
The Jedburgh Common Good Sub-Committee met on Monday 29 June 2026 to discuss funding applications and urgent business. The committee approved a £10,000 grant for the Jedburgh Tourism Alliance to support tourism promotion and a £3,120 grant for the Jethart Callant's Festival to cover costs associated with the King's visit.
Planning and Building Standards Committee - Monday, 29th June, 2026 10.00 am
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.
Local Review Body - Monday, 17th August, 2026 10.00 am
The Local Review Body is scheduled to consider three requests for the review of previous planning application refusals. These requests concern proposed changes to existing structures and the erection of new buildings in rural locations.
External Services/Providers Monitoring Group - Tuesday, 18 August 2026 - 10.00 am
The External Services/Providers Monitoring Group of Scottish Borders Council is scheduled to convene on Tuesday, 18 August 2026. The meeting's agenda includes a review of the first quarter's performance report for SBc Contracts and a discussion on the trading operations of SBc Contracts up to June 2026.
Peebles Common Good Fund Sub-Committee - Wednesday, 19 August 2026 - 5.00 pm
The Peebles Common Good Fund Sub-Committee is scheduled to consider a range of proposals and updates at its upcoming meeting. Discussions are expected to cover a mobile sauna proposal, a request from the Peebles Highland Games Association, and updates on various council properties and facilities.
Scottish Borders Council - Thursday, 20 August 2026 - 10.00 am
The Scottish Borders Council is scheduled to convene on Thursday, 20 August 2026, with a packed agenda covering a range of important local issues. Key discussions are expected to include an update on the Newtown Primary School fire, a proposal to permanently close Fountainhall Primary School and Early Learning and Childcare, and the development of a new Scottish Borders Culture, Arts and Heritage Strategy.
Civic Govt Licensing Committee - Friday, 21 August 2026 - 11.00 am
This meeting has been cancelled.
Scottish Borders Licensing Board - Friday, 21 August 2026 - 10.00 am
This meeting has been cancelled.
Pension Fund Investment and Performance Sub-Committee - Monday, 24 August 2026 - 2.00 pm
We do not yet have any information about the planned agenda for this meeting.
Lauder Common Good Fund Sub-Committee - Tuesday, 25 August 2026 - 2.00 pm
We do not yet have any information about the planned agenda for this meeting.
External Services/Providers Monitoring Group - Tuesday, 25 August 2026 - 10.00 am
We do not yet have any information about the planned agenda for this meeting.
William Hill Trust Sub-Committee - Tuesday, 25 August 2026 - 1.30 pm
We do not yet have any information about the planned agenda for this meeting.