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One in three Borders leisure sites spark condition concerns

Ray Gillham Chambers InstituteRay Gillham
Difficult access at the Chambers Institute was highlighted in an audit report

More than one in three leisure facilities run by a charity for Scottish Borders Council (SBC) have an element which is not fit for purpose.

A report on an overhaul of Live Borders said the financial implications to the authority would be "significant".

SBC already provided the organisation with more than £500,000 in additional support in March this year.

It will be told that is likely be the "minimum requirement" in order to simply keep the charity solvent.

A survey of more than 40 buildings operated by Live Borders found over 35% had at least one section which was not fit for purpose.

Among the issues highlighted in an audit report were:

  • Difficult access via a steep stairway at the Chambers Institute in Peebles
  • Windows which could not be opened at Eyemouth Library to allow ventilation in the summer
  • No toilet provision for the public at Mary Queen of Scots' House in Jedburgh
  • Unusable lockers at Kelso Swimming Pool

The audit is part of a wider report to councillors about the way forward to address the financial pressures facing the charity.

It warns that the "status quo in terms of services, facilities and funding is not sustainable".

Ben Brooksbank Mary Queen of Scots' HouseBen Brooksbank
A lack of toilet provision was flagged up at Mary Queen of Scots' House in Jedburgh

It added that significant work would be needed to ensure the future sustainability of sport, leisure and cultural services in the region.

A range of measures are being proposed to try to turn around the fortunes of Live Borders.

The recommendations to the council include:

  • A review of pricing to increase external income opportunities
  • Consideration of appointing a professional fundraiser on a commission-only basis
  • Creation of a single, easy-to-use booking system
  • Carrying out a skills audit of trustees and senior managers to identify any "skills gaps"

The Live Borders trust arrangements were originally established in 2003 with the formation of Borders Sports and Leisure Trust.

Cultural and community services were added in 2016 and the Great Tapestry of Scotland visitor centre in 2020.

A report said that the pandemic, constraints on public funding, inflation, rising energy costs, changing community aspirations and the drive to net zero emissions had all had an effect.

A total of 26 recommendations to help tackle the situation have been made, with a first progress report expected in spring 2024.

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