AN historic former mill building which most recently housed a café and retail outlet could be about to be converted into a family home.

A planning bid has been submitted to Scottish Borders Council for the change of use of Abbey Mill, a two-storey detached property in Annay Road, Melrose.

A former corn mill for the Abbey brewery it was last used as a retail outlet and cafe by Edinburgh Woollen Mill.

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A report with the application, from London-based Casswell Bank Architects, on behalf of the applicant Sam Casswell, of Gattonside, Melrose, says: “The proposed adaptation of Abbey Mill will upgrade the building into a single residential dwelling in a sensitive and respectful manner.

"The refurbishment looks to create a modern home, that repairs some of the mistreatments inflicted on the building over the years and makes a positive contribution to the townscape.

“Where possible proposed adaptation to the existing fabric – especially the 18th and 19th century elements – have been kept to a minimum.”