Tweeddale - Integratis service/property change proposals
Detailed below are the property change proposals in Tweeddale put forward by the independent consultants following their review.
We will not be making any decisions regarding service or property changes at this time, recognising that there is much to consider and further work is required. Community and stakeholder consultation is also essential prior to any recommendations being made for Full Council to consider.
Please note that in some instances the consultants have identified multiple options for services/facilities which need to be read independently and not in conjunction with other proposals in that location.
In preparing for community and stakeholder engagement initial issues and considerations arising from the consultant’s property-related proposals have been captured by officers. These are not intended to be a complete or comprehensive list of issues and considerations, and through engagement with communities and stakeholders we anticipate many further options, considerations and issues will be raised.
This input will help to develop and shape final property and service recommendations, which are expected to be brought to Full Council for decisions in autumn.
Innerleithen
| Service/Property | Proposals within Integratis report | Initial issues and considerations arising from consultants' proposals to start discussions with communities |
|---|---|---|
| Innerleithen Memorial Hall | Consultants' Proposal: Engage with the community to assess Community Asset Transfer potential; otherwise, proceed with closure |
This is a Common Good asset and is used by a range for a range of community events/activities/performances. It plays a key role in the local festival. Some business usage is associated with the facility. The property is also used as a polling place. Consideration needs to be given as to whether there is any alternative facility which could accommodate activities. |
| St Ronan’s Wells Visitor Centre | Consultants' Proposal: Close due to low usage or consider Community Asset Transfer. Maintain gardens and relocate displays to the library |
Visitor numbers cannot be considered in isolation due to very limited opening over recent years. This property plays a significant role in the local festival. Opportunities to relocate displays to the Library Contact Centre should be considered. The option of Community Asset Transfer needs further discussion with the community. The condition of the property is a consideration. Other considerations include the South of Scotland Responsible Tourism Strategy |
West Linton
| Service/Property | Proposals within Integratis report | Initial issues and considerations arising from consultants' proposals to start discussions with communities |
|---|---|---|
| West Linton Graham Institute | Consultants' Proposal: Engage with the community to explore Community Asset Transfer interest; if none, proceed with closure |
This facility is used for various community activities. It is also used as a polling place. Interest/capacity within community for Community Asset Transfer unknown. |
Peebles
| Service/Property | Proposals within Integratis report | Initial issues and considerations arising from consultants' proposals to start discussions with communities |
|---|---|---|
| Gytes Leisure Centre | Consultants' Proposal: Retain and repurpose the sports hall into a fitness gym and studio while relocating sports hall bookings to Peebles High School and Drill Hall. |
Further work is required to consider the opportunities and costs of repurposing part of the facility which would allow for increased usage and income. The availability of alternative facilities within the town to accommodate any displaced activities needs considered. Consideration needs to be given to the existing changing room provision for sports clubs. Peebles has a registered Local Place Plan following the work of the Town Team and direct engagement will take place to explore options further. |
| Peebles Drill Hall | Consultants' Proposal: Proceed with closure or Community Asset Transfer if viable |
This is a well used facility, including by some SBC staff on part time basis. The availability of alternative facilities within the town to accommodate any displaced activities needs considered. There has been some previous interest in a Community Asset Transfer. A new model of community centre management could also be considered. Peebles has a registered Local Place Plan following the work of the Town Team and direct engagement will take place to explore options further. |