Proposed sale of Common Good land at South Common, Selkirk to Scottish Water

Under the Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015 the local authority is required to consult with the local community when it is planning to dispose of common good property. The proposed sale of common good land at South Common Farm, Selkirk is to accommodate a new Clear Water Tank. We asked you for your comments on this disposal.

I would like to understand how the sale of this land is in the interest of the people of Selkirk. What benefits are to be gained by the sale? Rather than a sale is a long-term rental possible, thereby giving a steady income to the community each year?

The sale of land will allow the stability of drinking water supplies within the Selkirk Catchment. Whilst a lease was considered by all parties over the expected life of the Water Tank (approx. 100 years) the preferred option was a sale as this allows Selkirk Common Good to realise a capital sum now.  Receiving a capital sum provides flexibility for Selkirk Common Good to look at different options for the sum received. One option could be to invest the capital sum and receive income over the long term which could be equivalent to a rental income. By disposing of the asset, it is possible to include terms which provide the option for the land to be purchased back from the purchaser at the end of its life.