COMMUNITY leaders reckon it will cost £17,000 to “flood Galashiels with colour”.

As previously reported, the town’s community council is hoping to launch its ‘Floral Gala’ project before the Great Tapestry Visitor Centre opens.

And chairwoman Judith Cleghorn says she has already made enquiries.

She told last week’s meeting: “We are looking at installing planters on the fences near Argos, on Douglas Bridge, on Channel Street and near Dalgetty’s.

“It will cost in the region of £17,000 – that is including contingency money for the upkeep in following years.

“Going forward, we will only have to buy the plants, as we will have the planters in place.”

Ms Cleghorn also said the town would also be receiving a ‘floral train’ from ScotRail – which will be installed between the station and Douglas Bridge.

The ‘Floral Gala’ project was first announced during September’s meeting of Galashiels Community Council.

Ms Cleghorn said she believed the town should “aim higher”. 

She added: “We have got a glorious town here, but we are not making the best of it.
“It will cost a lot of money, but let’s make this a place to be proud of – not because the tapestry is coming, but for us... For the people of this town who have had to put up with miserable streets, no flowers and empty shops.”

It was welcomed by community councillors and elected members.

Ms Cleghorn also said she hopes the public will get behind the proposed project at September’s meeting.