The Executive Committee of Scottish Borders Council met on Tuesday 8 September 2026 to discuss a range of economic development initiatives, performance updates, and support for community councils. Key topics included an update on economic development activities, a strategic plan for tourism infrastructure, and progress on the Borders Railway extension project.

Economic Development Update

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on key economic development initiatives across the Scottish Borders. The report highlighted progress on the Active Travel Strategy Delivery Plan, including the RIDONKULOUS Active Travel Campaign in Hawick and a wider rollout of a scooter programme to primary three pupils across the region. The Employability Service was reported to have supported new clients, job starts, and work experience placements. Significant progress was also noted on key government programmes such as the Community Regeneration Partnership Programme, the Levelling Up Fund, and the Place Programme. Preparations for the 2027 Tour de France Grand Depart were also mentioned, alongside updates on the Tour of Britain and Tour o The Borders cycling events.

Strategic Tourism Infrastructure Development Plan

A report was presented on the completion of a Strategic Tourism Infrastructure Development (STID) Plan for the Scottish Borders. This plan, prepared in line with the requirements of the Rural Tourism Infrastructure Fund (RTIF), aims to provide a strategic framework for developing tourism infrastructure across the region. It identifies and prioritises projects to address visitor pressure points, support responsible tourism, and enhance the visitor experience. The plan proposes two tiers of projects: Tier One Strategic Hotspots, including St Abbs/Coldingham, Lindean Loch, Newcastleton, and the Tweed Valley; and Tier Two Individual Sites, comprising Maxton and Gunsgreen/Eyemouth. The committee was asked to note the plan and recognise its alignment with RTIF criteria.

Borders Railway Update

The committee was scheduled to receive an update on the Borders Railway project, specifically regarding the appointment of specialist consultants to deliver technical elements of the first stage of the business case process, known as the Strategic Outline Business Case (SOBC). This stage is supported by up to £10 million in funding from the UK and Scottish governments through the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal. Consultants WSP were appointed to undertake multi-modal transport assessment and appraisal work (Work Package One) and to develop a Growth Prospectus outlining the long-term vision and socio-economic opportunities for the transport corridor (Work Package Two).

Tour de France Update

A verbal update was scheduled to be provided by the Director of Infrastructure & Environment regarding preparations for the Tour de France Grand Depart in 2027.

Minute of Previous Meeting

The committee was to consider the minutes of the previous meeting held on 11 August 2026.

Scottish Borders Council's Quarter 1 2026/27 Performance Information

A report was presented summarising the performance of Scottish Borders Council for the first quarter of the 2026/27 financial year. The report detailed progress against the Council Plan's six themes: Clean Green Future, Fulfilling our Potential, Strong Inclusive Economy, Transport and Infrastructure, Empowered Vibrant Communities, and Good Health and Wellbeing. Of the 106 performance indicators presented, 70 were reported as being in a good position, with 7 considered excellent. Seventeen indicators were highlighted as areas for improvement.

Missing Shares Scheme: Implementation Update

An update was provided on the implementation of the Missing Share Scheme, approved in January 2025. This scheme enhances the Council's Scheme of Assistance by supporting owners with essential common repairs where a minority of owners are unable or unwilling to contribute their share. The report detailed progress in establishing the scheme, including staffing, operational procedures, governance, partner engagement, and an owner communication programme. Early enquiries and two formal applications were noted, with one resulting in an approved contribution and the other resolved through owner agreement.

Review of Non-Financial Support to Community Councils

This report outlined the discussions and recommendations from a Working Group tasked with reviewing non-financial support provided to community councils. The group, comprising Elected Members and community councillors, met between September 2025 and June 2026. Key recommendations included the establishment of a new Borderswide community council network, the publication of a guide for secretarial support, the development of training materials on various topics including youth participation and planning, and the creation of templates for accounts, asset management, minutes, and project management. The report emphasised that support needs vary between community councils and that the conversation would continue with a newly established network.