The Local Review Body of Scottish Borders Council is scheduled to meet on Monday 14 September 2026 to consider three requests for reviews of previous planning decisions. These reviews concern the refusal of planning permission for solar panels in Newcastleton, a change of use application in Broughton, and the retrospective replacement of windows in Peebles.

Review of Refusal for Solar Panels at 12 South Liddle Street, Newcastleton

The meeting is scheduled to consider a request to review the refusal of planning permission for the installation of a solar photo voltaic array and wall-mounted battery storage at 12 South Liddle Street, Newcastleton. The original application was refused on two grounds: firstly, that the solar array would have an adverse visual impact on the building and the wider terrace, failing to preserve or enhance the character and appearance of the Newcastleton Conservation Area^[1], and secondly, that the applicant failed to demonstrate that the proposal would not have an adverse effect on European Protected Species. The applicant, Warmworks, has submitted a notice of review, arguing that the opinion regarding the National Planning Framework 4 (NPF4) was subjective and did not fully consider the Scottish Government's position on Net Zero and the alleviation of rural poverty. They also contend that there is no reasonable evidence to suggest protected species would be affected, and that their attic space has been converted, making bat presence unlikely. The applicant has requested a hearing session and a site inspection.

Review of Refusal for Change of Use at Glenkirk, Broughton

A further item on the agenda is the consideration of a request to review the refusal of planning permission for a change of use from an office to a holiday let at Glenkirk, Broughton. The original application was granted permission, but with a condition requiring the construction of a passing place on the local road network. The applicant, Mark Jackman, is appealing this condition, arguing that the requirement is disproportionate to the scale of the proposed one-bedroom holiday let and inconsistent with requirements for other businesses in the Glenholm Valley. The applicant has requested information on the metrics used by the Highways Department and has highlighted several other local operations, including forestry and haulage businesses, and larger short-term let properties, which have not had similar requirements imposed. The applicant also raised concerns about road damage from timber extraction and the use of the Glenkirk house entrance by road gritters.

Review of Refusal for Replacement Windows at 45-6 March Street, Peebles

Finally, the Body will consider a request to review the refusal of planning permission for retrospective replacement windows at 45-6 March Street, Peebles. The original application was refused on the grounds that the uPVC tilt and turn style windows were inappropriate for a Category C listed building within the Peebles Conservation Area^[2]. The refusal stated that the replacement windows would detract from the special architectural and historic interest of the listed building and the character and appearance of the conservation area. The applicant, Sean Kilner, has submitted a review statement detailing the poor condition of the former windows, including draughts, water ingress, heat loss, damp, and mould, and the practical, energy-efficiency, and financial benefits of the new windows. The applicant acknowledges the heritage considerations but argues that the degree of visual harm should be assessed proportionately and that the new windows have improved the living environment and affordability of heating the property.