Thursday December 18th 2025
Selkirk Parish Church
Written by Local Democracy Reporter, Paul Kelly
Four walled memorials in a Selkirk church which is being transformed into a community hub are to be found new homes.
Mounted marble plaques belonging to the town’s Cochrane family are to be re-situated within the family lair in the exterior church yard.
This is in consideration to the Cochrane family who it is felt must have continued access to the plaques now that the church is in private ownership.
Meanwhile, a Commonwealth War Memorial brass plaque is to be removed and re-instated at Ashkirk Village Hall to ensure that public access to it is secured and maintained.
In his report approving the re-locations, Alla Hassan, SBC’s assistant planning officer, states: “The Heritage and Design Officer has been consulted on the proposal and has confirmed that, while the removal of interior memorials is generally resisted due to the potential loss of associative value and historic interest, their relocation would ensure they remain visible and appropriately contextualised.
“On this basis, no objections were raised, subject to conditions relating to fixing details and long-term protection measures.
“This position is consistent with the comments of Historic Environment Scotland. Consequently, subject to the attachment of these conditions, it is considered that there would be no harm to the significance or historic interest of the listed building.”
The Selkirk and Ashkirk Parish Church redevelopment project is converting the historic B-listed building into a modern, welcoming, and sustainable facility.
The £51k redevelopment aligns with the church’s mission to support the community through practical service, providing a vital resource for various local activities and events.
The long-term vision includes creating a multi-functional venue with a 250-seat auditorium, breakout rooms, and professional catering facilities, attracting larger events to Selkirk.
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