A COMMUNITY engagement event will be held in Earlston next week to give locals the chance to have their say on a number of new initiatives.

On Tuesday, September 28 three issues will be discussed at the church hall from 2-9pm.

The drop-in event will allow residents to view Scottish Borders Council’s plans for the new primary school; as well as Eildon Housing’s proposals for 64 homes to be constructed on the former high school site.

And NHS Borders will be in attendance to discuss the possibility of a new surgery within the new primary school development.

Councillor David Parker, who represents Leaderdale and Melrose, said of the investment in Earlston: “These are fantastic new proposals for Earlston which will provide greatly enhanced community facilities.

“The investment in Earlston has been planned over a number of years and it is tremendous that it is now coming to fruition, as the new primary school is long overdue.”

In addition to the provision of a new primary school, GP practice and 64 new homes, the investment proposals for Earlston include the relocation of the public library from the high school to the new primary school development to be closer to the high street; a new “destination” playpark (similar in size to that in Galashiels); and “enhanced environmental improvements” in the town.

Mr Parker added: “I am delighted that NHS Borders are looking to provide an enhanced GP Practice as part of the school development and everyone is working hard to make that a reality.

“The proposed new play park would be of a significant scale, it would be a destination play area with equipment for all young people and all abilities.

“Further consultation on the play park element will take place in 2022, once the site for it and the planning permissions have all been agreed.

“I hope Earlston residents will come along to the drop in session on September 28, it will be a great chance to see the plans and help shape them.

“These proposals represent a multi-million pound investment in enhanced community facilities in Earlston with SBC, NHS Borders and Eildon Housing Association working in partnership to significantly enhance community facilities and provide much needed homes.”