A study by the Scottish Borders Council (SBC) has revealed that a timber drying facility in the region would be economically viable.

The local authority said the study sought to collate the facts needed for private sector developers with the aim of attracting inward investment for the region. It looked at the viability of a timber drying kiln at a number of locations in the area and SBC explained that the creation of the facility would be economically viable, and would benefit the local community through:

• Employment

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• Greater local timber utilisation

• An increased demand for woodfuel

• Support for the move towards a low carbon economy.

Executive Member for Economic Development, Councillor Stuart Bell, explained: "Studies undertaken as part of the Scottish Borders Woodland Strategy identified the lack of kiln drying facilities as a key constraint on the local timber processing sector.

"Dried timber is a prerequisite for the majority of added value timber products. The feasibility study confirms that, currently, there are only two very small drying kilns in the Scottish Borders but increased production of kiln-dried timber within the region could generate a range of new products serving potentially large markets, both new and existing, in the region and surrounding areas."

A seminar will now be held by the SBC, in conjunction with the Borders Woodfuel Forum, to discuss the findings of the study. It will be held at the Tweed Horizons Centre, Newtown St Boswells, next month which will outline opportunities for businesses.

(JP/CD)