A BORDERS football club’s iconic stand has achieved a notable goal after its £1.45m restoration received national recognition.

The modernistic concrete cantilevered Netherdale stand at Gala Fairydean Rovers has A-listed status from Historic Environment Scotland (HES).

The 500-capacity structure, which originally opened in 1964, was closed for almost four years after concerns were raised over its safety.

But a major restoration safeguarded it for future generations and it reopened in October 2022.

The iconic stand – designed by renowned architect Peter Wormersley – was restored  with co-operation from Scottish Borders Council, HES, the Fallago Environmental Fund and Live Borders.

Now the building project has been revealed as a finalist in the RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) Awards, Scotland 2024.

It has been shortlisted in the Heritage Project, Refurbishment/Revitalisation Project and Community Benefit Project categories and will be judged by an expert judging panel.

The restoration of the Category A-listed structure involved reinforcement protection works and concrete repairs, restoration of some of the stand’s original features, improvements to the drainage and the installation of a water membrane to the roof and turnstiles and general conservation repairs.

The RICS Awards showcase the most inspirational initiatives and developments in land, real estate, construction and infrastructure. They recognise outstanding achievement, teamwork and companies.

The entries are shortlisted across five categories – Residential Development, Community Benefit, Heritage, Public Sector, Refurbishment-Revitalisation.

Chair of the Scotland RICS Awards judging panel Colin Smith said: “It is inspiring to see such inspirational projects in Scotland shortlisted for these awards. It is a true testament to the dedication of surveying professionals despite challenging times in recent years. I wish all of the projects the best of luck.”

Companies still have the opportunity to enter an additional six categories – to be judged nationally – and have until April 26 to submit their entry. Among the national categories is the new Ambassador of the Year Award category.