Plans have been submitted to build a new £6.7 million visitor centre in Galashiels.

The facility, which will be created at the former Post Office and Poundstretcher buildings, will become home to the Great Tapestry of Scotland; a 143 metre long community arts project which involved over 1,000 volunteers stitching the entire story of Scotland.

Designed by architects Page and Park, the centre would include temporary space for exhibitions, and flexible space for education, learning and events, as well as space for community and retail facilities including a café.

The application also includes plans to introduce interpretation and art installations across the town centre, which would encourage visitors from the nearby Borders Railway to visit the Tapestry, as well as increase footfall and spend in Galashiels.

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Scottish Government funding of £2.5m has already been granted towards the visitor centre project, which is at the centre of a Regeneration Capital Grant Fund application.

Cllr Mark Rowley said: "The submission of the planning application for the Great Tapestry of Scotland visitor centre is the next step towards creating one of the most significant town centre economic development projects to take place in the Scottish Borders in recent years.

"If approved, the visitor centre will be more than a home for the Great Tapestry, but also provide educational, retail and community facilities to benefit a wide variety of groups.

"The visitor centre would also be the first stage of a long-term strategy to stimulate investment in the local economy, and it is pleasing that local groups are supportive of this approach.

"The Council and partners are committed to continuing to engage with these groups to ensure they remain at the heart of the regeneration of Galashiels."

If approved, the visitor centre is expected to be completed by spring 2020.

(LM)