Chambers Institution trustees reinstated
David O'Leary • Published 8 Oct 2010 09:30
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ARRANGEMENTS to revitalise the Peebles Chambers Institution Trust were agreed at a meeting of Scottish Borders Council last Thursday.
The council has appointed the six Tweeddale councillors (Calvert, Bhatia, Garvie, Herd, Logan and Archibald) to serve as trustees of the independent body which will be responsible for the overall management of the Chambers Institution.
Councillor Neil Calvert, Chairman of the Trust working group, said: “This is a real breakthrough for the Chambers Institution and comes after a long period of hard work to resolve a number of complex and unique issues associated with a building which is recognised as being of national importance.
“Under the new arrangements, the Council will continue to provide a museum and library service within the facility and will lease office accommodation from the Trust for an independently determined annual rent.”
Plans for a refurbishment of the ground floor of the building and improved disabled access to and between the library and museum will be progressed within the current financial year.
These plans will also see the development of a joint SBC and VisitScotland contact centre on the High Street.
Councillor Calvert added: “The arrangements which have been agreed today allow us to open up a new and exciting chapter in the history of the Chambers Institution.
“We can now not only progress plans to upgrade the ground floor of the building - which will bring in much-needed rental income for the Trust - but we can also look forward to working with the local community to shape a sustainable and innovative business plan for a facility that will continue to meet the needs of the local community in the long-term.
“This will include exploring opportunities for funding and increasing income and usage, as well as the possible benefits of charitable status.”
The news was also welcomed by local councillor, Willie Archibald, who said: “I believe that this will truly be to the benefit of the people of Peebles.
“This is exactly how William Chambers, who donated the building to the townsfolk, wished the institution be run, by the people and for the people.”
This article appeared in Peeblesshire News 08 Oct 10
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