PERMISSION has been granted for the opening of a new music school in Galashiels.

But Roddy Matthews, who is representing the proposed centre, must first produce a noise management plan to prevent drowning out his new neighbours at the Islamic Centre.

Mr Matthews' application to convert a former dentist's surgery in Roxburgh Street into a school for musicians.

Included in his proposals are plans for triple-glazing and better insulation.

But there are fears that noise coming from the school could still have an adverse impact on the neighbouring religious centre.

Planning officer Carlos Clarke said: "The applicant's submission already refers to noise mitigation being proposed, though that appears more to protect the occupier and it may not necessarily address potential impact on the Islamic Centre.

"The applicants have been unable, so far, to devise measures and I suggest it is reasonably necessary to control this by a condition requiring a management plan.

"The plan need not be professionally produced, but at least demonstrate that the use can operate without unreasonable intrusion on the most sensitive activities of the Islamic Centre.

"This will benefit both occupiers."

Permission also includes a restriction on operating hours from 9am to 8pm until the noise mitigation measures are introduced.