Fate of place of worship bid hangs in the balance

When members of Scottish Borders Council Planning & Building Standards Committee met this week, they were recommended to approve the change of use of the dilapidated Isaac House on Armatage Street.

A design statement for the proposals by The Highway Christian Fellowship said it would “respect the architectural character of the building and surrounding context”.

But five objections have been lodged raising issues including noise, disruption and an increase in traffic.

The two-storey property is in the heart of Eyemouth within its conservation area and is next to a listed building, although it is not listed itself.

A planning report for councillors concluded there were no material considerations on which to base a refusal and recommended giving the scheme the green light.

Members heard from objector Jane Reid, who addressed the committee on behalf of a group of residents in Armatage Street.

She said: “We strongly object to this planning application. Armatage Street is a narrow, quiet residential lane and a venue of this size is wholly disproportionate to its setting.

“The noise identified by the council such as amplified music and speech is not the only noise this development would create.

“A 120-person facility would generate significant footfall noise directly outside homes, even an additional 30 to 60 additional people all coming and going several times a week would generate a level of footfall noise that we strongly believe would amount to nuisance.”

Members agreed to carry out a site visit to the building before a judgement on the application is made.

Members are to then make a final decision at their next meeting on Monday, April 20.