Shop on Gala's Tweed Road set to re-open

A long-established Borders car dealership is set to re-open a Galashiels retail outlet which closed in November, 2014.

Adam Purves Galashiels Ltd is seeking to breathe new life into the former Tweed Road sub Post Office and shop which had, since 1934, served the needs of thousands of residents in the south east of the town.

But after running the business for 32 years, owners George and Cath Douglas reluctantly opted to retire, blaming difficult trading conditions and a reduction in passing trade following the protracted closure of Winston Road on the sole road link between Netherdale and Langlee during construction of the Borders Railway. The couple also cited the loss of income as a result of increased online access to Post Office services.

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Now Adam Purves Galashiels Ltd wants to run the outlet, which has stood empty for 14 months, as a licensed convenience store.

“I can confirm we are interested in re-opening the Tweed Road store and think it is an exciting opportunity both for us and the local community,” said company director Andy Purves.

“But to make the venture viable we do believe obtaining an off-sales licence is crucial.”

The application to Scottish Borders Council’s licensing board for the provisional grant of a premises licence confirms the intention of operate the outlet as a “general convenience store with off-sale facility”.

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Those minded to comment on the bid – for the sale of alcohol seven days a week from 10am till 10pm – have until next Tuesday, February 9, to do so.

The application is then likely to be considered at the meeting of the licensing board on February 19.

“While I hope matters progress, nothing is as yet finalised,” cautioned Mr Purves.

Mr Douglas told the Southern: “We had always hoped the business would stay in local hands so I hope the firm is successful in getting its licence. It would a tremendous boost to this community.”

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Adam Purves Galashiels Ltd, which owns the service station at Wilderhaugh in Galashiels, has a workforce of 71 and is involved in the sale, servicing and repair of cars as well as the operation of several forecourts/shops in the Borders.

Last year, the firm completed a major revamp at its Wilderhaugh shop, rebranding it to Spar.