A former gap site in Hawick has been given a new lease of life. Teviot Crescent and Oliver Crescent, a gap site of the former Almstrongs Shop was opened on 3 June, creating a new public space.
New public space
The site has been vacant since the demolition works of Almstrong’s Department Store, a major historic retail building in the town and construction of the new Business Centre.
Following confirmation of funding in April 2025 from the UK Government’s Community Regeneration Partnership initiative, designs were refined and agreed for an accessible public space and link route at the prominent gap site.
The site also has a deeper historical significance. Stone from the former church on this location has been incorporated into the boundary wall, including an inscription reading ‘St John’s Church Hall 1885’, giving the space an added sense of connection to its past.
Councillor Mountford, Executive member for Estate Management and Planning
“It is great to see this prominent town centre site transformed into an attractive and accessible public space for the people of Hawick.
“This project has brought a long-vacant gap site back into beneficial use, improving connections through the area and enhancing the look and feel of this part of the town. I am pleased to see the work now complete and the space open for everyone to enjoy.”
The new public space provides an accessible pathway and stepped access between Teviot Crescent and Oliver Crescent. The site has been landscaped, planted and new lighting installed along the path.
In tandem with the construction on the gap site, works were carried out on properties in Teviot and Oliver Crescent. The project was completed earlier in 2026 and is now fully open to the public.
Images of the path are available to view on SBC's Flickr page.