Peeblesshire News | News | Cafe society at Veitch's corner

Wednesday, 19th November, 2008

Published: Friday, 29th August, 2008 12:30

Cafe society at Veitch's corner

By David Knox

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COMPROMISE is bringing coffee to one of Peebles’ most prominent shops.

A row erupted earlier this year over plans to convert the former Veitch’s clothing store into a café.

And local councillors voted against the change of use application.

But a resubmitted bid, which wanted to dedicate only half the floor space to serving cappuccinos with the other 50-per cent for prime retail, was more successful at this week’s Tweeddale Area Committee.

Councillor Willie Archibald told the meeting: “This application has raised a lot of concerns due to the iconic location on Peebles High Street.

“But we have to face the facts that we have an offer here where there is an even split between retail and a restaurant. On these terms I am happy to support the application.”

And he was backed by fellow committee member Neil Calvert. Councillor Calvert said: “To refuse will impact the viability of the High Street, while accepting the application will enhance it.”

Peebles Community Council and the town’s Civic Society both objected to the building serving dealing in doughnuts rather than dresses and dungarees.

And Tweeddale chairman Graham Garvie also made a passionate plea for the listed building to be kept for Class 1 retail.

But he was voted down.

A spokesman for developers Thomson’s Scotland haven’t revealed who will take over the site. But a spokeswoman told us: “We are pleased with the decision.”

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