We have launched a consultation that aims to seek public views on the Common Good registers for the former Burghs of the Scottish Borders.
All Borderers are invited to participate in this consultation before the closing date of 31 March 2022.
Following an investigation of the assets held by us, a draft asset register has been prepared for each former Burgh. We have considered title deeds (for land and buildings), museum records and old Burgh minutes. Where an asset was donated to a town, prior to 1975; where it was purchased from Common Good funds; or where it has historically been used by the people of the town as a public asset, we have determined that the asset should form part of the Common Good.
The consultation
However, we are seeking public opinion on whether any additional assets should be included on these registers or conversely, if an item on the register is not Common Good.
At the end of the consultation period, each Common Good Sub-Committee will meet to discuss the comments received via the consultation. These comments will be considered, along with the evidence available, in order to determine whether any assets should be added to, or removed from, the register. All representations and responses, together with a copy of the final register, will then be published within six months of the closing of the consultation.
More information
Any further information on the assets already noted in the register is also welcomed. Furthermore, if any additional information comes to light after the publication of the final register, the register can be amended to include newly identified assets.