PERMISSION has been granted for an agricultural merchants to move into the former Baxters building near Selkirk.

Community leaders had criticised the plans by Carrs Billington to convert the former visitor centre and cafe into a supply outlet.

One member of the town’s community council compared the fenced off external storage area to a prison.

But change of use permission was granted by Scottish Borders Council.

And a further application for new signage at the gateway building next to the A7 has also been approved.

Planning officer Andrew Evans said: “Consent has just been granted for Carrs Billington to operate an agricultural merchants from the premises.

“The signage appears appropriate relative to the scale and design of the existing building. “The proposals will have no adverse effect on the appearance of the wider area, and are acceptable in terms of amenity and road safety considerations.” Carrs Billington will move its current depot in Selkirk to the new building later this year.