A TOTAL of 35 community organisations and businesses across the Borders have expressed an interest in SBC's comfort scheme.

Of that figure, 10 expressions of interest were made for the scheme in the Eildon area, which covers the towns of Galashiels, Selkirk, Melrose and Lauder.

There have been three expressions of interest in Selkirk, and one from Galashiels.

Across the Tweeddale area, eight expressions have been made.

In May, SBC sought the help of businesses, community councils, and local groups with a view to maintaining free toilet facilities across the region. It followed a council review of its public toilet provision which resulted in 27 of the 41 facilities becoming a paid-for service.

A Scottish Borders Council spokesperson said: “The Council has recently written to several organisations who have expressed an initial interest in being part of the proposed comfort scheme to request more information.

“It is expected that a report will be presented to Councillors later this year to further discuss the creation of such a scheme in the Borders.”

The spokesperson added: "Any business or community group interested in joining can fill out the simple contact form available at www.scotborders.gov.uk/publictoilets or phone 0300 100 1800.

"Among the potential benefits of joining a comfort scheme, you will be helping to provide a valuable service to your local community and visitors to your area which will be advertised on our webpage and through our social media pages. Plus, annual or quarterly payments will be received for those involved in the comfort scheme. If it is a community partnership, there is an opportunity for the community group running the facility to charge for usage and generate income

"It could lead to more trade for your business or facility through people using the toilet then going on to buy products from you."