COUNCILLORS have delayed making a decision over the Great Tapestry of Scotland for two months.

It was expected, at yesterday's local authority meeting, that a vote would be taken over a preferred site for the attraction.

Work has already started on developing land at Tweedbank, but plans to develop the former Post Office in Galashiels, as well as the neighbouring Poundstretcher building, have won recent favour.

At the end of a lengthy discussion members unanimously agreed to receive a further report in November, when they will then be asked to decide to progress with development of the project in Galashiels, at Tweedbank, or not to proceed at all.

Council leader David Parker said: “Councillors are carefully considering all the information and business case for the potential Galashiels site for the Great Tapestry of Scotland visitor centre.

“That business case identifies that the Galashiels project is £1.1m more expensive than Tweedbank at its current stage of development and the project would also need ongoing revenue subsidy.

“We all agreed that more work is required to investigate the potential funding options, with a report to come back before us in November which will enable us to make an informed decision.

“The potential of the Galashiels option is significant and could transform the town into a true visitor destination and become a catalyst for further town centre regeneration, but this would come at a price.

“The Tweedbank site remains a very strong option and would also result in a wonderful facility for the Scottish Borders which would attract significant numbers of tourists and would have a very positive impact on our local economy.”