A VACANT shop unit in Peebles High Street is ready to open its doors again in the near future.

The former Harrowers and William Hill betting shop at number 82 which has been unoccupied and a blight on the town’s main street for almost eight years has been sold.

The announcement comes just weeks after it was revealed that there are proposals for a restaurant at the former Veitch’s shop which has also lain empty for several years and spoiled the look of the town centre.

Michael Ireland, from Peebles, the new owner of 82 High Street, said: “Part of my enthusiasm for buying this shop unit was that it does have a great location. I’ve always loved the High Street and it does have a great mix of buildings. It’s not as big as Veitch’s but it will certainly improve the look of the town if both these buildings are open again for business.” In the short-term Mr Ireland is hoping the unit will be used as a pop-up shop - a small and temporary business that can build up interest by customer exposure. Pop-up shops are often used by traders for seasonal items such as Christmas gifts and trees.

“It might appeal as a place for an online trader to use or for somebody who wants to test out the market and doesn’t want to commit long-term,” said Mr Ireland.

Looking further ahead, the unit would be suitable as offices or for a retail business.

Mr Ireland had hoped the sale would have gone through at the beginning of the year but he said: ”This has been a long and difficult task to complete the purchase, as a result of a number of title and other issues.

“I am relieved that it is now settled and we can move on to put this fantastic building into use.” He added: “There is internal work required, which we will deal with early in the new year, but for now we are making good the electrical and other services and intend to offer the shop to any potential short term pop-up shop user, in the run up to Christmas.”