49 new homes approved amid housing emergency
Last updated 29th Jun 2026
Plans to build 49 new homes for rent in Selkirk have been approved - despite concerns it could lead to over development of the site.
M & J Ballantyne has been granted permission to develop a triangular piece of land, near the Philipburn House Hotel, for Eildon Housing.
Six objections were lodged against the proposals amid concerns over the potential impacts on the historical significance of the site, including its association with the Battle of Philiphaugh; as well as the loss of green space and risk of flooding.
But the meeting heard the Angles Field development - just off Linglie Road - will help address a shortage of homes in the area, which is opposite the primary school.
Councillor Viv Thomson (Tweeddale West, SNP), a member of Scottish Borders Council's planning committee, told Monday's meeting: "When I first looked at this, I suppose I was alarmed a wee bit about the loss of the green space. But, given that these are going to be affordable housing, I think that for me, it just overrides that.
"These are a really good mix of sizes of houses because we're really short of larger size properties in the Borders.
"I was a bit concerned about the difference in numbers. The site was identified as potential for around 30 houses and there's 49 proposed, but I do get that there's the flats.
"Looking at the plans, it doesn't look like everything's going to be jam-packed into the site. There is still some green space round about the site.
"I think the shape of the site helps with that as well. There's some corners you're not going to be able to do much with, so they will stay as green spaces."
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As well as providing much-needed new homes, the development includes associated parking, a community green space and a community garden.
Today's decision comes just weeks after we revealed a shortage of homes in the Scottish Borders has meant some families are being forced to LEAVE THE COUNTRY to secure temporary accommodation.
The local authority confirmed "a limited" number of residents declared homeless are being offered refuge in Carlisle due to its "good transport" links and "range of shops".
But it says they are offered a return to the region, from England, as soon as accommodation becomes available.
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Reflecting on the Linglie Road development, Councillor Thomson said: "I have a huge amount of concern for residents.
"If you've got used to looking out at the countryside and your dog walking space is just across the road, all that is potentially going to change."
But she added: "We do have a housing emergency on."
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