Former Kelso bookmakers to be converted into church community hub

Kelso Baptist Church (KBC) had submitted a planning application to Scottish Borders Council for the change of use of 36 to 40 Horsemarket into a community hub.

The property has been vacant for a number of years after its previous occupants, William Hill bookmakers, relocated online and to Kelso Racecourse.

The church, based at the Knowes Centre, was established in 1840 and has been part of the fabric of the town for more than 170 years.

In his report recommending approval, Euan Calvert, the council’s assistant planning officer, said: “This is a large modern appearing building perhaps dating from the 1970s that now contributes rather poorly to the character of the conservation area.

READ MORE: Update on teenage jockey injured in horrific fall at Kelso races

“A supporting statement has been provided demonstrating that the business has been vacant for over five years.”

KBC is a member of ‘Kelso Churches Together’ and works closely with other churches in the area to support the community, for instance through the Kelso Food Bank, and members are keen to expand these community support activities.

The plan is that the community pastorate and church office will be based at the building and that its minister, the Reverend Rob Jones, will also be on site two or three days a week.

A church spokesperson said: “Reverend Jones will extend his role as business/community pastor by offering drop-in counselling for existing businesses during the current challenging times.

“He has four years experience as a professional workplace chaplain and will develop this role he has offered through the Covid pandemic within Kelso shopping area by being on site in the heart of the community, opening the building for community-benefiting activities on a volunteer staffed basis.

“Using the building as a community space will add diversity to the town centre and increase footfall, allowing existing visitors and new users access to this space.”