Plans lodged for Earlston cultural hub

A FORMER Scottish Borders Council social services office in Earlston is set to be converted into a new cultural conference hub, it has emerged.

The Duns-based Hugo Burge Foundation – formerly known as the Marchmont Makers Foundation – purchased the vacant offices at East End in 2023.

The foundation has now submitted a planning application to SBC to re purpose the building into a mixed-use of artist studios and office space for creative businesses, as well as a conference and exhibition space for artists and makers.

This would include subsidised artist facilities, teaching spaces for the community and coworking areas.

A statement issued with the planning bid says: “The vision for the building does not require extensive remodelling of the exterior, only a replacement of windows and doors, some minor alterations and exterior painting to smarten up its appearance and the break up of massing, particularly the long elevation facing the main road.

“The internal modifications look to rationalise the plan layout, with the goal to provide modern, flexible work and conference/exhibition spaces that will be attractive to its users.”

As part of the proposals the existing rear car park area will be interspersed with tree and planting beds in order to break up the large expanse of Tarmac. New external doors will provide access to an outdoor terrace for the benefit of users.

The statement adds: “Earlston is seen as an ideal location for this type of facility, being well-placed in relative close proximity to larger population centres in the central Borders, as well as the train station at Tweedbank.”