The Chambers Institution Trust met on Wednesday 18 March 2026 to discuss property maintenance, financial updates, and the progress of Phase 1 of a project. A significant development was the formal registration of the Friends of the Chambers Institution Trust as a Scottish charitable incorporated organisation, which will enable it to pursue funding opportunities not available to the council.

Property Maintenance Update

The meeting received an update on various property maintenance issues at the Burgh Hall. Work to treat dry rot in the dressing room rear toilet area, which began on 25 February, uncovered further dry rot and also revealed wet rot affecting roof joists. An engineer was consulted, and additional work was approved to strengthen a joist, incurring extra costs. The treatment is expected to conclude by 20 March, with painting to follow.

Repairs to leaking gutters and hoppers on the rear elevation have been completed. However, leaks have been noted in the foyer roof area around the middle door and skylight, and a roofer has been asked to investigate.

The condition of the Peeblesshire War Memorial was also discussed. Areas of stone, particularly the left arch of the main shrine and the door surround, are in poor condition due to weathering. The council's Heritage and Design Officer, Deborah McLean, has recommended consultants, and correspondence has begun with Graciela Ainsworth Sculpture Conservation for a site survey. The relocation of the Boer War Memorial Plaque has seen no progress since the last meeting.

Friends of the Chambers Institution Trust

A key development reported was the successful registration of the Friends of the Chambers Institution Trust as a Scottish charitable incorporated organisation (SCIO). This new entity replaces the previous beneficiaries' group and will operate with additional capabilities due to its charitable status. Sam, who is involved with the organisation, explained that this will allow them to apply for grant funding from sources not accessible to the council, thereby adding a new dimension to the project. Discussions are planned with the Chambers Institution Trust to establish a memorandum of agreement and terms of reference, outlining governance and coordination between the groups.

The immediate objectives for the Friends include continuing fundraising efforts, securing match funding for Phase 1, and building support for Phase 2. A business plan is considered essential for this, providing clarity for funders. Currently, there are three trustees: Sam, Andy Davie, and another individual. The organisation plans to invite residents of Tweedale to become members and is seeking expressions of interest from individuals willing to become trustees. Further information can be obtained from Sam or Lauren McCulloch at Borders Community Action.

Financial Update

A brief financial update was provided, noting the current cash position. A £1,033 refund from Page Park was highlighted, secured through the efforts of Sam, for work that had been paid for but not completed. Professional costs related to fundraising were also mentioned, with a note to adjust these for future reporting.

Phase 1 Progress Report

The meeting received an update on Phase 1, with the decamp process reported as well underway. A new system has been implemented where the project team will provide a progress report every Friday. Attendees were asked to provide feedback on the reports to ensure they contain the necessary detail. The reports are considered more immediate than previous updates, and the overall progress of Phase 1 is reported to be according to plan.