Thursday August 7th 2025
Hawick United AFC. Photo by Hawick United AFC.
Written by Local Democracy Reporter, Paul Kelly
A Borders football club has revealed ambitious plans to revitalise its pavilion for players, fans and the whole community.
A planning bid has been submitted to Scottish Borders Council by Hawick United AFC to change the use of its Derek Ramage Pavillion in Wilton Lodge Park into dedicated clubrooms.
This development is seen as “significant step” in strengthening the club’s infrastructure and deepening its roots within the community.
The pavilion will serve as a hub for players, supporters, and volunteers, enhancing the club’s ability to deliver sporting and social benefits to the town of Hawick.
A report states: “Hawick United AFC proposes to carry out a well-considered internal fit-out of the existing Derek Ramage Pavilion to establish it as the club’s new permanent clubhouse.
“This initiative is part of the club’s broader commitment to improving its facilities and securing a sustainable, long-term base within Wilton Lodge Park.
“The proposed works will involve targeted amendments to the internal layout of the building, aimed at enhancing functionality, accessibility, and the overall experience for players, staff, and visiting teams.”
Plans include a larger home changing facility, designed to comfortably accommodate the full squad and coaching staff, with space for preparation and team briefings.
There is to be an enlarged away changing facility, ensuring comfort and usability for visiting teams.
Plans also incorporate a dedicated physio room and gym, supporting player health, injury prevention, and rehabilitation.
Additionally, there is to be an external kit store, providing secure, weather resistant storage for essential equipment and helping to streamline matchday operations.
In addition to these physical upgrades, the club is planning for future sustainability improvements. As part of its long-term environmental goals, Hawick United AFC intends to transition the pavilion’s heating system from gas to electric.
The report adds: “The proposal helps secure the long-term future of the Derek Ramage Pavilion by giving it a new purpose as a fully functioning clubhouse.
“While the building is currently in use, it isn’t being used to its full potential. This project will bring it back to life, making better use of the space for the club and the wider community.
“By reusing the existing structure and focusing on practical, sustainable upgrades, the club avoids the environmental impact that would come with building a brand new facility. This approach supports low-carbon development and makes the most of what’s already there.
“The pavilion is also well placed in terms of access. It’s connected to the town by a network of roads, footpaths, and cycle routes through Wilton Lodge Park, making it easy to reach by walking, cycling, or public transport.
“This supports sustainable travel and helps keep the facility accessible to everyone in the community,”
Hawick United AFC, established in 1962, has been a cornerstone of community football in the Scottish Borders for over six decades.
Based at Wilton Lodge Park the club has a proud tradition of participation in the Border Amateur Football Association, where it has enjoyed considerable success across multiple decades.
In 2019, Hawick United merged with Hawick Royal Albert to form Hawick Royal Albert United, a move that combined the strengths of both clubs and aimed to secure a sustainable future for senior football in the town.
Despite this merger, the legacy and identity of Hawick United remain deeply respected within the local football community.
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