BAPTISTS in Peebles have taken a further step towards creating a permanent home for the first time in 27 years.

This week a full planning application to build a new Church in the town was submitted with Scottish Borders Council.

The congregation hope to erect the building on land at Cleland Avenue, near to Kingsmeadows.

Since a community survey in 2016, the Church has shaped its plans to create the facility, which they believe is much-needed on the south side of the Tweed.

The full planning application is for a main Church building with three adjoining meeting rooms, a kitchen and toilet facilities.

Ian Gray, pastor of the Baptist Church said: “We’re excited to be moving forward with this project, which is all about being good news on the south side of Peebles."

The full application will be considered by Scottish Borders Council over the coming weeks.