PLANS have been unveiled to create a Community Campus in Earlston.

The project will see the site of the village's primary school redeveloped.

And a drop-in session is being held next month for members of the public to have their say on the proposals.

Councillor Sandy Aitchison, executive member for neighbourhoods and locality services, said: “We know through Earlston’s community-led plan published last year that there is a real desire in the village for a dedicated community facility and a redeveloped primary school.

“As a result, the council has developed the plans for a Community Campus which we will believe will enhance opportunities for learning and social interaction across Earlston and beyond.

“At same time as discussing the new campus plans, we want the views of the public regarding other properties in the village."

The scheme is part of the local authority's Fit for 2024 project, which looks at ways to improve the Borders.

Councillor Gordon Edgar, executive member for roads and Infrastructure, said: “Fit for 2024 has a number of key themes which includes making best use of our properties.

“The council has on average, spent £14m each year in the running costs of property which includes refurbishing and repairing the current estate.

“However, the sheer size of that estate means that investment is spread too thinly and makes it impossible to sustain safe and fit-for-purpose properties.

“We want the council to be bolder and braver when it comes to making decisions about estates and engage with communities and partners on how we can together meet changing customer needs and community demands.

“The Fit for 2024 property events are a start of these discussions.”

The event, which takes place on Thursday, September 19 at Earlston Primary from 4pm-7pm, will also give people the chance to discuss current services in the town and the provision of a new playpark.

In a joint statement, Leaderdale and Melrose councillors Kevin Drum, Tom Miers and David Parker added: “We need the views of the Earlston public on properties in the village, including their thoughts on the plans for the new Earlston Community Campus which we believe will be welcomed by local residents who have requested an improved community facility for a number of years.

“We would encourage as many people as possible to come along and contribute to the event.”

Anyone seeking more information ahead of the event can email communityengagement@scotborders.gov.uk