A new major art exhibition project is set to be based in Galashiels.

Councillors are being recommended to select the town to be the home of the Great Tapestry of Scotland once the local authority meets on Thursday, 22 December.

If approved, the Scottish Government has confirmed it will provide a £2.5 million funding package for the project.

The scheme would see Galashiels' Post Office brought back into use and the former Poundstretcher building demolished, with a new build erected and connection formed between the two.

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Cllr David Parker said: "The Great Tapestry of Scotland is of national and international importance and siting it in the Scottish Borders will create a world-class tourist attraction.

"The Galashiels proposal now being recommended was not available for consideration when the Tapestry project commenced, but earlier this year, due to the former Poundstretcher site becoming vacant and positive discussions with Royal Mail, an affordable and deliverable site in Galashiels has been identified. 

"The site in Galashiels will benefit from enhanced support from a range of funders and the site provides greater accommodation with more flexibility for the Tapestry and other exhibits and facilities.

"The town centre site will have a significant regeneration impact on Galashiels and will bring many benefits to nearby local businesses."

(LM)