RATES on the High Street were the key issue discussed between Future Hawick members and local MP Michael Moore when they met in the town last week.

The members of the group updated Mr Moore on their work and recent business survey, and the MP was able to update Future Hawick on the series of discussions he has been having with senior council officials.

Business rates on the High Street were discussed at length and Mr Moore will once again take the issue up with the Scottish Government.

Separately, Mr Moore joined with group members in welcoming the new funding received from the council to support their work.

Commenting after the meeting, Mr Moore said: “I have long been pressing Council officials to support efforts to regenerate Hawick High Street so this extra £30,000 is certainly welcome.

“It is also good that the locality report for the town is nearing completion and that the Council have agreed to host a workshop which will bring together local traders, community groups and others to discuss how we can secure the High Street’s future.

“I met with the Future Hawick Group last week to discuss how these initiatives are progressing and I will continue to work closely with them to ensure that the town sees the regeneration local people have called for, over many years.”