PLANS have been unveiled to finally demolish a redundant sheltered housing complex in Peebles.

And it will be replaced with up to 36 much-needed affordable homes.

Discussion began about to redeveloping the Tweedbridge Court sheltered housing development more than four years ago.

And residents were decanted from the 38 self-contained flats to alternative properties during 2014.

For the past three years the two-storey complex, as well as two neighbouring semi-detached bungalows, have been earmarked for demolition.

Site owners Blackwood Housing planned to redevelop part of Tweedbridge Court following the demolition.

And they also wanted to sell off part of the site to a Glasgow-based housing company to build 18 properties for private sale.

But the plans never reached the planning stage.

This week Eildon Housing confirmed it was now in negotiations to buy the site.

And a full planning application has been submitted for the demolition of the current buildings.

Eildon’s CEO Nile Istephan told the Peeblesshire News: "The site at Tweedbridge Court in Peebles has been identified as a development opportunity to be taken forward by Eildon Housing Association as part of the Scottish Borders Strategic Housing Investment Plan.

"We are in the process of acquiring the site and would look to submit plans for its redevelopment in the usual way.

"Subject to all the necessary consultations and approvals, we would look to provide around 36 high quality new affordable homes on this key site within the town."

Waiting lists for rentable properties in Peebles are among the longest in the Borders.

And dozens of applications are submitted for each house or flat that becomes available.

Mr Istephan believes the redevelopment of Tweedbridge Court will help meet some of the demand.

He added: "The Tweedbridge Court opportunity forms part of a record breaking 750 home new affordable housing programme being delivered by Eildon Housing Association, in partnership with Scottish Borders Council and the Scottish Government.

"Not only will these new homes meet identified housing need and provide high quality accommodation, but it will also support the local economy through the creation of high skilled constructions jobs.”

In was revealed during the June meeting of Peebles Community Council that Blackwood Housing and Eildon had entered negotiations over the site.

But fears were expressed that flooding issues could derail any immediate developments.

This week's announcement has been welcomed by Peeblesshire councillor Shona Haslam.

She told us: "It will be good to see something finally done at Tweedbridge Court.

"There is an urgent need for affordable rented properties in Peebles and this will be a welcome development."