The Scottish Borders Council meeting on Thursday 20 August 2026 addressed the recovery efforts following the fire at Newtown Primary School, the proposed permanent closure of Fountainhall Primary School, and the development of an Early Intervention, Prevention and Social Prescribing Programme. The council also approved a new Culture, Arts and Heritage Strategy.

Newtown Primary School Fire Recovery

Councillors received an update on the swift and comprehensive response to the fire at Newtown Primary School on 25 July 2026. The affected areas included the main reception and nursery, with smoke damage permeating the entire building. The recovery approach prioritised the safety of children, minimising disruption to learning, and maintaining stability and routine. A council-wide effort, involving staff from property, health and safety, and facilities, alongside external contractors, enabled the temporary relocation of pupils to Council Headquarters. Primary 1 to 7 pupils are now accommodated on the ground floor, with learning continuing as normally as possible. The nursery provision has been temporarily relocated to Errolston Primary School, which shares a head teacher and staff with Newtown Primary. Significant praise was given to all involved for their rapid and effective response, with parents expressing gratitude for the positive outcome despite initial anxieties. The reinstatement of the existing school building is now a high priority, with works being scoped out. The estimated damage is around £240,000, but the council's insurance excess is £250,000, meaning the cost will likely not be covered by insurance. The temporary accommodation costs are being monitored separately. The aim is for pupils to return to their school building after Christmas.

Proposed Closure of Fountainhall Primary School

The council considered a draft proposal paper for a statutory consultation on the permanent closure of Fountainhall Primary School and its Early Learning and Childcare (ELC) setting. The school has been temporarily closed since June 2025 due to a projected roll of only one pupil, and the ELC had been temporarily closed in 2023 due to low demand. An options appraisal concluded that permanent closure and rezoning the catchment area to Heriot Primary School was the most viable option, offering educational benefits and supporting the sustainability of Heriot Primary. The proposal paper outlines that the statutory consultation will run from 24 August to 12 October 2026, with a public meeting scheduled for 16 September at Fountainhall Village Hall. Councillors noted that this decision is to approve the proposal paper to commence the consultation, not the final closure. Concerns were raised about the administrative error that led to the Stow and Fountainhall Community Council not being included in the initial options appraisal survey, and assurances were given that they would be fully consulted during the statutory process.

Early Intervention, Prevention and Social Prescribing Programme

Councillors discussed a proposal for the development and funding of an Early Intervention, Prevention and Social Prescribing Programme for the Scottish Borders. The programme aims to shift focus upstream to help people stay well, remain independent, and access support in their communities before needs escalate. This initiative is intended to address challenges such as an ageing population, health inequalities, and increasing loneliness and social isolation, thereby reducing pressure on health and social care services. The programme will build on the existing Live Borders activity referral programme, expanding to include physical activity, creative and cultural participation, and community-based support. The proposal seeks council approval to fund 50% of the programme costs over three years, subject to matching funding from NHS Borders. The estimated cost to the council over three years is £650,617. The programme is expected to improve physical and mental health outcomes, reduce social isolation, and enhance community resilience. An amendment was moved and seconded to highlight that social prescribing is a shared responsibility with NHS Borders and that their funding is required.

Scottish Borders Culture, Arts and Heritage Strategy

The council approved the final Culture, Arts and Heritage Strategy for the Scottish Borders. The strategy, developed over a considerable period with extensive engagement from communities, cultural organisations, and partners, sets out a long-term vision and strategic priorities. Detailed delivery actions will be managed through a separate rolling action plan developed by a proposed Cultural Partnership. The strategy does not commit the council to new funding at this stage, but aims to strengthen the Borders' position in coordinating activity, identifying opportunities, and supporting funding bids. A shadow Cultural Partnership, led by Live Borders with support from Scottish Borders Council and other partners, will be established to develop governance, representation, and the initial action plan. The strategy aims to foster identity and belonging, develop the culture and creative economy, and improve access to culture and wellbeing, while celebrating heritage and supporting creativity.

Other Business

The council also appointed Councillor McKinnon to the Focus Centre Committee following the resignation of Councillor Sinclair. In response to open questions, Councillor Greenwall confirmed that cross-pavement EV charging schemes are not currently proposed in the short term, with a report on on-street parking options to be presented in September. Councillor Hamilton provided details on the training and qualifications undertaken by employees aged 25 and under within the council. Councillor Hamilton also outlined opportunities for extended work placements for young people in the senior phase of education and paid work placements offered by the Employment Support Service.

The meeting also included discussions on the draft agenda for the next meeting, and questions regarding electric vehicle charging, planning applications, and employment of young people.

The meeting was held on Thursday 20 August 2026.