Borders construction workers invited to get involved in Hawick’s £1.5m regeneration works

Six properties in Hawick town centre will be first in line for facelifts now the Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme (Cars) is getting up and running.

The buildings set for transformation are the old Glenmac mill in Teviot, 4 Round Close and four properties in the High Street - the old Krafts shop at No 24, the vacant unit above No 26, the former Queen’s Head pub at No 32 and the erstwhile Liberal Club at No 80.

Like the previous initiative in Selkirk and ongoing one in Jedburgh, work is to focus on renovating historic buildings in need of repairs.

The scheme is funded by Historic Environment Scotland, Scottish Borders Council and the South of Scotland Economic Partnership (SoSEP), and they have contributed £1.3m, £200,000 and £60,000 respectively to its kitty.

Now the workforce to make the transformation a reality is being sought.

On Wednesday, December 11, a launch event is being held from 7.30am at the Trophy Bar in Hawick Rugby Club and is targeted at those in the construction industry.

The event will pinpoint the benefits of the scheme for workers in skilled trades locally.

A Cars spokesperson said: “At the event there will be an overview of Hawick Cars, a major regeneration initiative in Hawick town centre with over £1.5m of funding available to support traditional building repairs and traditional skills training, as well as information on how local construction businesses might benefit from this initiative.”

An important element of the scheme will be to reinforce awareness of the town’s rich history through community projects.

A programme of traditional skills training will be developed to enhance construction skills for looking after the town’s historic environment into the future.

The breakfast launch will include tea and coffee and a hot roll, the Cars spokesperson adding: “If nothing else the breakfast launch will help fortify you for the day ahead. It is intended that the formal presentation will be concluded by 8.30am at the latest to minimise the impact on your working day.”

To find out more about the scheme or to arrange a meeting contact Colin Gilmour on 01835 825563 or email [email protected]