Consultation and Survey Hub

How you would like to be kept informed on taking forward the next Local Development Plan for the Scottish Borders?

Generally respondents were supportive of the Council’s proposed approach to how information on the new LDP would be shared. The value of traditional methods such as placing adverts in newspapers, notices in libraries and contact centres, circulation of newsletters and the use of email was highlighted. The distribution of posters/leaflets to community councils for them to circulate within their communities was also suggested. Although the use of email was seen as a preference to the use of social media, concern was expressed to the dependency in the use of the internet. Whilst there was a preference for public meetings and for in-person presentations, it was also clear that there is still a need for online events. However, some comments were received in respect to the timetable for bringing forward the new LDP.

As a result of the public consultation on the Draft Development Plan Scheme, only minor amendments have been undertaken, this primarily included adding dates to tables 1 and 3.

Going forward, the Development Plan Scheme will be updated annually to take account of any comments received and any potential changes to the timeframe for bringing forward the new Local Development Plan.

We asked you about what you like and dislike about living in Burnfoot, as well as what you think is needed to make it and even better place to live. 

150 people responded to our survey, and we had informal conversations with 138 people. From what you have told us, and other information available, we think the priorities for Burnfoot are:

• Improve health for all
• Improve maintenance of public areas
• Increase access to activities for young people and the wider community
• Increase access to work, learning and training
• Reduce anti-social behaviour
• Reduce child poverty

We are currently asking if you think these are the right priorities for Burnfoot and which ones are most important to you. When we have completed this work, we will use the priorities to produce a Locality Plan for Burnfoot and work with you to identify actions to address the priorities.

The consultation on the potential sale and repurposing of the School Brae Public Toilets in Peebles received a total of 26 responses. The comments revealed a range of opinions and concerns, which have been categorised into key themes. All comments can be seen in full in the embedded file below. 

Key Themes

1. Support for the Reuse Hub 

Several respondents expressed support for the proposal to repurpose the toilet block for the Reuse Hub. They highlighted benefits such as reducing waste, providing affordable items to the community, and the successful management of the Reuse Hub by the Peebles Community Trust. 

2. Opposition to the Sale 

A number of respondents opposed the sale and repurposing of the toilets. They emphasised the need for public toilet facilities in Peebles, especially for tourists, families with young children, and individuals with medical conditions. Concerns were raised about the impact on tourism and local businesses if public toilets are not available. 

3. Alternative Suggestions 

Some respondents suggested reopening the toilets or providing alternative facilities nearby. Proposals included collaboration with organisations like Go Tweed Valley to improve tourism facilities. 

4. Concerns about Community Trusts 

There were comments expressing scepticism about the ability of community trusts to manage the facilities effectively, citing past difficulties in securing funding and maintaining buildings. 

5. Potential Traffic and Accessibility Issues 

Concerns were raised about increased traffic and accessibility issues if the Reuse Hub is expanded. 

We will continue to liaise with Peebles Community Trust as they develop their business case for the proposed Reuse Hub in the School Brae Public Toilets building.

All comments submitted as part of this consultation have been fed back to the Trust and will inform their business case. We will ensure that any actions taken are published here to keep the community informed and engaged.