A CONTROVERSIAL house has won planning permission from councillors.

The proposed property in Newstead generated 14 objections before coming to Scottish Borders Council's planning committee on May 18.

But a majority of councillors supported the application put forward by Ferguson Planning on behalf of JS Crawford Farming Partnership.

Tim Ferguson told the Border Telegraph his client is "delighted" with the result.

The development of land on the corner of Main Street and Eddy Road had been withdrawn in 2017 and refused in 2018.

But this week, during the first virtual meeting since lockdown, a total of six councillors supported the plans, with only three dissenting.

Andy Anderson, member for Galashiels and District, was among the critical voices.

He said: "I've listened to the debate, but on balance I feel it results in a loss of valuable open space."

East Berwickshire representative Helen Laing took a similar view, saying: "Over half of the space is being lost – this space is being used and is clearly well loved."

She added: "I don't think the building justifies the loss."

However, councillors in favour of the development said the building would be in-keeping with the surrounding homes.

Mr Anderson's motion to reject the plans was turned down, with Simon Mountford's motion for approval backed.