The Public Local Inquiry into the long running saga about the scaffold clad building on Jedburgh High Street has been given a date.
Scottish Borders Council and the Objector will state their cases on 22nd April 2021 and will be held via webcast, due to lockdown measures.
The inquiry will look at the Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) being pursued by the council after one of the building’s owners objected to the process.
The CPO has been held up previously due to a fault by the Scottish Government which meant a new application had to be submitted last summer.
It is hoped that the inquiry will give clarity to the future of the building.
Cllr Scott Hamilton, representing Jedburgh & District ward, said:
“This is a welcome advancement in getting ownership of this troublesome property. The CPO is a lengthy legal process which has not been helped by the delays with the Scottish Government.
“I am sure townsfolk and traders in Jedburgh will be relieved to see this latest step forward. I will be rooting for the Council and for Jedburgh on the 22nd so that we can start to bring this sorry saga to a close.”
John Lamont MP said:
“Traders want their high street to be open and welcoming to shoppers. The dangerous buildings have blighted Jedburgh for far too long now.
“At last we seem to be seeing some progress. We all want to see an outcome that will benefit the town, and return it to its former glory.”
Rachael Hamilton MSP said:
“Anytime I’m speaking with Jedburgh residents, the biggest issue raised relates to the scaffolding on the High Street.
“There are many great shops and cafes in Jedburgh centre and the last thing they need is this eyesore continuing to scar the street. I hope the end is in sight for what has been a mess for too long.
