Approval has been given to the permanent closure of The Wilton Centre, Hawick (formally known as The Arches).
The decision follows a statutory consultation process that was held in accordance with the Schools (Consultation) (Scotland) Act 2010 (as amended) from 30 September to 18 November 2024.
The Social, Emotional and Behavioural Needs Service was historically based out of the Wilton Centre building as a standalone educational unit. This service is now part of the Inclusion and Wellbeing Service, which is a responsive, agile service that supports children within their existing cluster school settings which avoids lengthy travel.
Councillor Julie Pirone, Executive Member for Education, Youth Development and Lifelong Learning:
"The decision to close a school estate building is never undertaken lightly. A full and wide-reaching consultation and engagement process in accordance with legislation has been carried out and every response we have received has been considered.
"The building was no longer fit for purpose in terms of providing the service and care to children who require enhanced emotional support and nurture, which now takes place in a much more modern way and in a much better setting as part of our cluster approach under the Inclusion and Wellbeing Service.
"I would like to thank the local community and local members for their support and engagement in this lengthy process".