PLANS have been unveiled to extend a former dementia unit in Tweedbank - in a bid to find a buyer.

Craw Wood closed earlier this year after Scottish Borders Council opted to direct funding towards three smaller specialist centres.

A last-minute attempt by Mansfield Care, which already owns care homes in Galashiels, Melrose and Peebles, to take over the premises fell through.

And the three adjoining buildings which make up Craw Wood have been empty since the summer.

This week, owners Eildon Housing submitted plans to add a further two wings onto Craw Wood and increase its bed capacity from just over 20 to around 40.

It is understood the added accommodation will make the Tweedbank centre a more viable target for care home chains.

Chief executive Nile Istephan said: "Eildon Housing Association are assessing the options for the future use of our former residential care home in Tweedbank following its closure earlier this year.

"We are seeking interest from organisations either willing to purchase or lease the building in order to sustain it as a valuable community asset.”

The chief executive confirmed that there had been interest from other organisations since its closure but no deals have been reached.

The Border Telegraph revealed last month how reduced care home places across the region is leading to a shortfall.

Over the past decade the number of establishments caring for the elderly in the Scottish Borders has dropped by almost a quarter - despite a growing number of pensioners living in the area.

In 2006 there were 36 registered care homes in the Borders - today there are only 28.

Eildon's plans would see a new northern extension added, which would enclose the central garden area.

And a further wing would be added to the south-west of the current buildings.

The plans will also see al off the current bedrooms upgraded to meet standards.

The full planning application will be considered by Scottish Borders Council over the coming weeks.