The Chambers Institution building at the heart of Peebles, will close temporarily as part of a major refurbishment project that will secure its future as a vibrant cultural hub for Tweeddale.
Funded by the UK Government’s Levelling Up Fund, now referred to as the Community Regeneration Partnership (CRP) and supported by Scottish Borders Council, the project will deliver significant improvements to accessibility, co-locate key services, and enhance opportunities for residents and visitors.
Planned works in phase 1 include a new entrance/reception layout for lift and children’s library/museum discovery zone.
Community Engagement Session – 29 November 2025
Members of the public are invited to attend a community engagement session on 29 November, running from 10am to 4pm at the Burgh Hall, Peebles.
This drop-in event offers residents the opportunity to view the latest plans for the building’s refurbishment, ask questions, and find out more about the project’s aims and timeline of works.
Chambers Institution Trustees and Project staff will be available throughout the day to discuss proposals and gather feedback, ensuring the community’s voice continues to shape the future of this important local landmark. The busiest period is anticipated to be between 11am and 1pm, so visitors are encouraged to plan their visit accordingly.
All tenants, and service providers plus the Friends of the Chambers Institution comprising local community organisations, have been consulted. Tenants will be relocated during the closure, with alternative arrangements in place to maintain vital services.
The Council is working closely with organisations such as Citizens Advice Contact Centre, Registrar’s Office, SBC Contact Centre, Live Borders, The John Buchan Museum and Go Tweed Valley to minimise disruption and ensure continuity.
Councillor Robin Tatler, Chair of the Chambers Institution Trust
“It is now nearly 18 months since the local community across Tweeddale had an opportunity to consider the redevelopment and improvement of the Institution.
“We are confident that people will be delighted when they see what is being planned, as it will greatly improve the access and services provided by this important building.”
Fiona McDonald-Colton, Interim Head of Cultural Services for Live Borders
“This is a really exciting investment project for Peebles and an important development for the wider Tweeddale locality, in its tourism potential.
“Live Borders welcomes the opportunity to work with the Chambers Institution Trustees and the Council on shaping spaces required for library and museum/gallery activities and for showcasing wonderful local collections and heritage.
“My staff team based at the Chambers Institution is currently preparing for the future decant and scoping options for future redisplays of the museum’s permanent collection, activity/learning zones and enhancing library resources.
The Burgh Hall will remain open as usual for lettings/events throughout the project works and Live Borders will provide alternative interim mobile library services, to ensure access to books and e-resources is available for the Peebles community during closure period.”
Councillor Carol Hamilton, Executive Member for Housing and Culture
"The Chambers Institution is a cornerstone of Peebles' cultural identity, and this refurbishment marks a bold step forward in preserving its legacy while enhancing its role for future generations."
“We’re proud to support a project that reflects the community’s voice and delivers real improvements to accessibility, services, and visitor experience across Tweeddale.”
Community feedback has played a central role in shaping the plans, since project scope and business plan development discussions were launched in 2023. This ensures the building remains a democratic and inclusive space for all. Clear and proactive communication will be maintained throughout the closure and refurbishment, with regular updates provided to stakeholders and the public.
The Chambers Institution is a Category A listed building, originally gifted to the town by William Chambers in 1859. The refurbishment will honour its historical significance while creating a modern, accessible space for future generations.
Further details on the closure schedule, tenant arrangements for services, and project milestones will be shared in due course.