A FORMER Scottish Borders Council social services and NHS building in Earlston looks set to enjoy a new lease of life as a vibrant cultural hub.

The Duns-based Hugo Burge Foundation – formerly known as the Marchmont Makers Foundation – purchased the vacant offices at East End in 2023.

The foundation submitted a planning application to SBC to re-purpose the building into a mixed-use of artist studios and office space for creative businesses, as well as a conference and exhibition space for artists and makers.

This is to include subsidised artist facilities, teaching spaces for the community and co-working areas.

In her report supporting the conversion, Julie Hayward, SBC’s lead planning officer, says: “This application relates to the former council and NHS offices, now vacant and sold to the applicant.

“This is an ideal location for the facility, being close to larger population centres and the station and would promote sustainability, reducing commuting distances.

“The proposal would bring a vacant building back into use and the renovations would improve its appearance, which would enhance the visual amenities of the area.”

A statement issued with the planning bid stated: “The vision for the building does not require extensive remodelling of the exterior, only a replacement of windows and  doors, some minor alterations and exterior painting to smarten up its appearance and the break up of massing, particularly the long elevation facing the main road.

“The internal modifications look to rationalise the  plan layout, with the goal to provide modern, flexible work and conference/exhibition spaces that will be attractive to its users.”

As part of the proposals the existing rear car park area will be interspersed with tree and planting beds in order to break up the large expanse of tarmac. New external doors will provide access to an outdoor terrace for the benefit of users.

The statement added: “Earlston is seen as an ideal location for this type of facility, being well-placed in relative close proximity to larger population centres in the central Borders, as well as the train station at Tweedbank.

“It is anticipated that the location will promote sustainability by reducing commute distances.”