Tuesday February 17th 2026
Selkirk Parish Church
Written by Local Democracy Reporter, Paul Kelly
Plans to transform a landmark parish church into a community hub fit for the 21st century have received the blessing of Scottish Borders Council.
Selkirk Parish Church in the town’s High Street was originally built in 1880.
Distinctive for its three-stage tower and steeple it is to undergo a series of alterations to ensure it “meets the needs of the church and the growing community”.
External alterations will include removal of the existing front door, alterations to the boundary to provide vehicular access and a parking area and internal alterations involving the removal of pews, raked seating, later partitions and a raised stage.
An application to carry out the alterations, designed to make the church accessible to all, has now been approved by council planners.
Further plans include good disabled access and disabled toilets, modern catering facilities and the expansion of social welfare initiatives.
There will also be the provision of safe outside play areas for children and young people alongside the community building, in addition to an effective heating system that uses renewable energy sources.
A planning report, from Angus Design Associates, said the aim was to create a modern, welcoming environment and to retain the identity and context of the church building at the heart of the community.
The report adds: “The internal layout is designed for versatility, with meeting rooms, activity spaces, and offices organised to maximise functionality and accessibility.
“The alterations will meet current accessibility standards, featuring ramps, wide doorways, and accessible facilities. Parking and pedestrian access will be enhanced to reduce traffic on neighbouring streets.
“The majority of development within Selkirk is residential and this exponential growth however is not met in the provision of community facilities.
“This need has been evident in recent years but even more so at times of community need and crisis.
“During the community consultation, it was concluded that a facility was required within the area that would be open seven days a week and would provide an accessible social gathering place for our community to combat social isolation amongst our growing number of elderly residents and those with young children.”
The proposals include facilities for indoor sports, building on the existing organisations using the building.
The report adds: “The proposed alterations are a thoughtful and necessary development that supports Selkirk Parish Church’s mission to serve the local community.
“By addressing accessibility, sustainability, and inclusivity, the alterations will significantly enhance the church’s ability to meet diverse community needs.
“This proposal presents an exciting and unique development to continue to build a vibrant, growing church at the centre of the community, with significant opportunities to invest in the community for those in need, youth, young families and care for older people.”
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