Residents across the region are being invited to "speak up" for their local communities - by taking part in Scottish Borders Council's Community Conversations 2026/27.
The programme, under the theme "Talk today, shape tomorrow" gives local people the opportunity to meet with Councillors and Senior Officers from the Council to discuss the issues that matter most to them, both in their local area and across the Scottish Borders.
Feedback
Feedback gathered through the conversations will help inform the development of the Council Plan and associated budget for 2027/28, ensuring local priorities are reflected in future decision-making.
Councillor Euan Jardine, Leader of Scottish Borders Council
"This year marks the fifth year of our Community Conversations. They've become an important way for local people to influence the future of the Scottish Borders.
“They give residents the chance to share their views, better understand how the Council works and help shape the decisions that affect their communities.
"Whether you have an idea, a concern or simply want to understand more about how decisions are made, I would encourage you to come along.
“Every conversation matters. Don't wait for change to happen to you - help shape how it happens for you. This is your opportunity to help shape the future of your community. Talk today - shape tomorrow.”
Public events
A series of public events will take place during August, with each session featuring a short presentation from Council Directors followed by facilitated round-table discussions.
Public Community Conversations:
- Thursday 6 August – Volunteer Hall, Galashiels (Eildon), 6pm–8pm
- Tuesday 11 August – Volunteer Hall, Duns (Berwickshire), 6pm–8pm
- Thursday 13 August – Lesser Hall, Hawick Town Hall (Teviot and Liddesdale), 6pm–8pm
- Tuesday 25 August – Peebles Burgh Hall (Tweeddale), 6pm–8pm
- Thursday 27 August – Jedburgh Town Hall (Cheviot), 6pm–8pm
Residents can also speak with the Council's Community Engagement Team at a number of informal drop-in events throughout July and August:
- Friday 24 and Saturday 25 July – Border Union Show, 9am–5pm
- Saturday 1 August – Selkirk Farmers Market, 9.30am–1pm
- Wednesday 5 August – Morrisons, Hawick, 12pm–2.30pm
- Saturday 15 August – Peebles Farmers Market, 9am–3pm
- Saturday 22 August – Kelso Farmers Market, 9.30am–1.30pm
- Saturday 29 August – Scottish Borders Pride, Galashiels, 12pm–5pm
Anyone who is unable to attend an event can still have their say by completing a short online survey.
The survey will be available from Friday 24 July until Monday 31 August 2026, with a link published on the Community Conversations webpage during this period.