DELAYS in the repair of a historic Border buildings are almost at an end, it has been revealed.

Workmen are expected to be move in next month to start restoration of the dilapidated Sunnybrae Lodge in Walkerburn.

Tweeddale East councillor Gavin Logan told a meeting of Walkerburn Community Council that everything was in place to end the long-running saga over the 19th century Listed building. I can confirm Scottish Borders Council now own the building and it was put out to tender to find somebody to carry out the necessary work,” he said.

“It’s a bit of a pity that only one tender came forward and it is a bit over budget. But they are a local firm, very keen to do the job and raring to go.

“We have to be optimistic that things will get moving now.” The building has been vacant since 2008 and its condition has deteriorated with the council forced to undertake emergency repairs in 2013.

The lodge is one of two - there is an identical one opposite - built in 1868 and designed by Frederick Thomas Pilkington. They were part of the estates of mill owners David and John Ballantyne whose father Henry was the founder of Walkerburn.

The lodge is likely to be sold off as a house once the work is completed.