SPIRALLING costs and strong opposition have forced council bosses to postpone any decision about locating a 3G pitch in Peebles.

Since the preferred site at the Gytes was ruled out due to flooding concerns officials have concentrated on alternative options at Craigerne Lane and Victoria Park.

But neighbours of both sites have strongly opposed the proposals.

And Peebles Community Council has also questioned the need for a further artificial surface pitch as a 2G surface was installed at Peebles High School last year.

At a meeting of Scottish Borders Council’s administration policy group it was decided to kick the current consultation into touch.

And members agreed to go back to funding body sportscotland to hatch a new plan.

Vicky Davidson, who is the executive member for sport at Newtown St Boswells, told the Peeblesshire News: “Having considered a report by officials on the outcome of the public consultation which produced a number of objections to both sites currently under consideration at Craigerne Lane and Victoria Park, and being very concerned at the escalating cost of the proposed project, it was unanimously resolved to make no decision on the provision of a 3G pitch in Peebles at this time.

“We will now seek a further meeting with our funding partners, SportScotland, to examine afresh all possible options and funding arrangements.” An exhibition on the alternative proposals was held at Peebles High School in June as part of a consultation proccess.

But the majority of responses have been against either plan.

Official reports on both locations indicate that the costs involved are substantially above the allocated budget of £1.1 million. Tweeddale councillor Stuart Bell is concerned about the spiralling price tag. He said: “All of the Tweeddale Councillors have had a large number of representations from local residents and from local clubs on this issue. “Whilst we are concerned to find the best location for a 3G Pitch the total cost of this potential project has to be affordable, so that the council and the local community are getting value for money. “It is to ensure this that we need a discussion with our funding partners.” Scottish Borders Council agreed last year to designate funding for 3G pitches in Peebles, Hawick and Jedburgh as well as a synthetic pitch in Selkirk.

Despite the recent setback in Peebles local councillor Graham Garvie is determined to find a solution.

He said: “We recognise the demand and desire for this facility within the Peeblesshire area from a number of sports clubs and we remain committed to finding an acceptable way forward.” No dates have yet been set for the meeting between council officials and sportscotland.