On 20 November, Scottish Borders Council approved a package of changes to Live Borders, the trust that runs our pools, libraries, museums and halls. The council’s own words were “fewer, but better” facilities.
An independent review found Live Borders needed £2.5m of extra council funding in one year, on top of its £4.8m management fee. Facilities proposed for closure included Selkirk swimming pool, the Focus Centre in Galashiels and the Drill Hall in Peebles, with several town halls offered to local communities.
For a rural region, “fewer” means longer journeys, often for people who don’t have a car. Scottish Borders Greens say:
- no closure without a funded, realistic plan for community takeover, with time, money and expert help;
- libraries are essential services and must stay in every community;
- every Live Borders worker should be paid the real Living Wage.
