The Scottish Borders Council meeting on 13 June 2024 focused on the approval of the new housing development in Galashiels, the introduction of a community recycling initiative, and the discussion of the annual budget report. The council approved the housing development and the recycling initiative, while the budget report was noted without any immediate decisions.

Housing Development in Galashiels

The council approved a new housing development project in Galashiels. The development will include 150 new homes, with a mix of affordable housing and private residences. The project aims to address the housing shortage in the area and provide modern living spaces for residents. Councillor John McLaren highlighted the importance of the project, stating:

This development is crucial for meeting our housing needs and supporting the growth of Galashiels. It will provide much-needed affordable housing and help to revitalise the local economy. ¹

Concerns were raised about the potential impact on local infrastructure and services, but the council assured that measures would be taken to mitigate any negative effects.

Community Recycling Initiative

A new community recycling initiative was introduced and approved by the council. The initiative aims to increase recycling rates across the Scottish Borders by providing additional recycling bins and launching an educational campaign to inform residents about the benefits of recycling. Councillor Sarah Douglas emphasised the environmental benefits, saying:

This initiative will not only help us meet our recycling targets but also contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable environment for future generations. ²

The initiative will be rolled out in phases, starting with a pilot programme in Hawick.

Annual Budget Report

The council discussed the annual budget report, which outlined the financial performance and projections for the upcoming year. The report highlighted a need for budget adjustments to address funding gaps in various departments. While no immediate decisions were made, the council acknowledged the importance of careful financial planning to ensure the sustainability of council services. Councillor Michael Reid noted:

We must be vigilant in our financial planning to ensure that we can continue to provide essential services to our residents without compromising on quality. ³

The budget report will be revisited in future meetings for further discussion and decision-making.