Making an information request

Access to information

You have the right to ask for information that we hold. We may not be able to provide the information but we will always tell you why we cannot supply it.

If you are seeking information about yourself that we hold, please visit the information about you section to find out more.

Making a request

If the information you want is not already available then you need to make a valid request. Please:

• write to us with your name and an email or postal address to which we can reply
• state what information you would like as clearly and specifically as you can

You can make a request by completing our online form or by writing and sending it to:

Information team
Council Headquarters
Newtown St. Boswells
Melrose
TD6 0SA

If we are not sure what information you require we will contact you to help you make a valid request.

Time to respond

We have 20 working days to respond, beginning from the day after we receive your request. We are able to extend this to 40 days for environmental information, if the volume of information requested is very large, but in that case, we will let you know.

If we need further clarity on your request or we are waiting for payment of a charge, then we will stop the clock until we are clear what it is you require.

Is there a charge?

This depends on the volume of information to be provided. Most small requests are free, but we can charge up to £50. If it would cost us over £600 to provide the information then we are entitled to refuse your request. Before refusal we will always offer advice and assistance to try to bring your request under this limit. If we refuse your request , due to cost, we will always explain our calculation.

If there is a charge we will advise you as soon as possible and the request will be placed on hold until the payment is received.

Making a short, specific request for information reduces the likelihood of a charge being made on your request being refused. You can find more advice on making requests at the Scottish Information Commissioners website.