EXCITING plans to take Peebles’ sporting provision to the next level have been revealed.

The proposals include building better changing facilities and equipment storage at Whitestone Park, and adding some hospitality space.

The project could also see Peebles Rovers relocated from the park to Violet Bank into purpose-built accommodation, as well as adding a running track/path at the site.

Improvements to the current changing facilities at the Gytes Leisure Centre have also been suggested.

ClubSport Tweeddale – working under the umbrella of ClubSport Borders – has brought the plans to the table, which have the backing of council chief executive Netta Meadows.

The group has submitted an application to the Peebles Common Good Fund to get the project off the ground with an evaluation.

It is looking to secure close to £5,800 when the committee meets on Tuesday (July 12).

In the report, a spokesperson for the group said: “Having been involved in previous projects including the proposal for a 3G pitch in Peebles we feel strongly that the best way to get the public onside is to share visually what our plan is so that there is nothing to fear in any possible changes we will make to improve the sporting provision in Peebles. We hope this will allow the consultation to operate smoothly and gather the data and support we need to increase and enhance the sporting provisions for all age groups.

“The overall aim would be to enhance equipment storage, changing facilities, hospitality at Whitestone Park, potential relocation of Peebles Rovers Football Club to Violet Bank along with some enhanced sporting facilities. This would also include winter provision and usage of facilities at Peebles High School. All of the above will be done in harmony with the new school build.”

The spokesperson said that, if achieved, the project would “create excellent sporting facilities for Peebles”.

“It will allow clubs to blossom and offer more opportunities within their sports at a local level,” said the spokesperson. “ClubSport Tweeddale fund clubs and individual athletes and as such support a number of athletes travelling further afield to train on better facilities to gain competition experience and more opportunities to progress.

“Sport has the opportunity to improve mental and physical wellbeing as well as bring the opportunity to socialise and blow off steam. Following lockdown, sport and physical activity has already shown that it has a place in society and we would like to enhance that.”

Edinburgh-based firm Turner and Townsend has been chosen as the preferred consultants/architects to take the project forward.

The company is already involved in delivering the new Peebles High School.

Five clubs have contributed £500 each to show their commitment to the project, with the £2,500 total matched by ClubSport Tweeddale.