A TOTAL of 35 organisations have stepped up to support a scheme to keep free public toilets in the Borders.

Of that figure, seven were from the Tweeddale area, including three from Peebles, one from Clovenfords, one from Eddleston, one from Carlops, and one from Broughton.

Across the Eildon area, which covers the towns of Galashiels, Selkirk, Melrose and Lauder, 10 expressions were made.

There have been three expressions of interest in Selkirk, and one from Galashiels.

In May, SBC sought the help of businesses, community councils, and local groups to keep free toilet facilities across the region.

It followed a council review of its public toilet provision which resulted in 27 of the 41 facilities becoming a paid-for service.

Scottish Borders Council said: “The council has recently written to several organisations who have expressed an initial interest in being part of the proposed comfort scheme to request more information.

“It is expected that a report will be presented to councillors later this year to further discuss the creation of such a scheme in the Borders.

“Any business or community group interested in joining can fill out the simple contact form available at www.scotborders.gov.uk/publictoilets or phone 0300 100 1800.

“Among the potential benefits of joining a comfort scheme, you will be helping to provide a valuable service to your local community and visitors to your area which will be advertised on our webpage and through our social media pages.

“Plus, annual or quarterly payments will be received for those involved in the comfort scheme.

“If it is a community partnership, there is an opportunity for the community group running the facility to charge for usage and generate income.

“It could lead to more trade for your business or facility through people using the toilet then going on to buy products from you.”