Building contractor, M & J Ballantyne Ltd, has been appointed to carry out a £780k redevelopment in Kelso.

The project, which will be on the gap site between Horsemarket and Woodmarket, will replace a property in Kelso town centre which was lost more than 50 years ago.

The project has been funded by the European Regional Development Fund and Kelso Townscape Heritage Initiative as well as the Scottish Borders Council.

The plans will see the current public toilet block demolished and in-fill the gap site with a three-storey and attic structure to replace the property. With the new build, office accommodation will be on the upper floors, while new public toilets will be provided on the ground level.

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A digital Tourist Information Point will also be provided adjacent to the bus shelter in Woodmarket, with the pedestrian link between Horsemarket and Woodmarket being retained.

Councillor Ron Smith, Executive Member for Planning and Environment, welcomed the appointment of the main contractors, which he said would allow work to start on a "key heritage objective".

He added: "This project is considered a priority and will bring a range of social and economic benefits to Kelso's residents, businesses and visitors."

The development work is expected to begin in May and will take around 40 weeks to complete.

(JP/CD)