PLANS for a retirement-flats complex on the site of a former church in Melrose will go on show this week.

A drop-in exhibition is being held on Wednesday to unveil designs for the 20 retirement apartments.

The Congregational Church, which opened in 1878, closed in 1930.

The building has been used as a cinema, an antiques shop, a coal merchant's and offices for both Scottish Water and NHS Borders over the decades.

In recent years local developer Rural Renaissance Ltd has attempted to market the building for commercial use.

But plans are now under way to create a retirement complex on the site.

A spokesman for Rural Renaissance told us: "We have attempted to market the old building but there has been limited interest.

"Our plans for retirement flats appear to be welcomed by members of the public - a social media survey proving it to be the preferred option for the rundown building.

"Financially, the development is projected to provide the town with strong economic benefits.

"With the apartments being located only a few hundred yards from the town-centre, local shops will be frequently used by residents."

During the drop-in exhibition the proposed designs will be on display.

And there will be an opportunity to provide feedback.

The spokesman added: "We have tried to create a balance of resemblance toward the existing church architecture, mixed with a contemporary façade."

Rural Renaissance is currently developing a neighbouring building into a day spa and gymnasium.

The drop-in exhibition takes place on Wednesday (February 12) afternoon at The Event Room at Priorwood between 4pm and 8pm.