Scottish Borders Council has approved a series of recommendations that will shape the future of care provision in the Hawick and Tweedbank areas, following submission of a report to the Council meeting held on 21 August 2025.
The proposals mark a significant milestone in the development of the two major care developments, aimed at transforming local social care services to better meet the needs of residents and communities, now and in the future.
In Hawick, the Council endorsed a revised care model based on extensive needs assessments, which identified a growing demand for Extra Care Housing, enhanced residential care, nursing care, bed-based respite, and supported living accommodation.
As a result, it was agreed that work would be undertaken to explore the refurbishment of Deanfield care home in place of a new build, with the home set to become the first nursing home directly managed by Scottish Borders Council.
The refurbishment proposal reflects a shift in care strategy for Deanfield, aiming to retain and enhance existing infrastructure while meeting modern standards and future care needs. The updated model will include enhanced residential care, nursing care, and bed-based respite services, with final room numbers to be confirmed through the full business case.
Proposals are being developed with Eildon Housing Association who own the site at Stirches in Hawick to develop Extra Care Housing and supported accommodation for adults with learning disabilities, addressing long-standing concerns about the lack of suitable housing in the area. The new provision would offer accessible, enabling environments that allow individuals to remain within their community while receiving the care they need.
For Tweedbank, the Council noted the continued progress on the care village development, with planning consent granted in July 2025 and enabling works scheduled to begin this autumn. Market testing and contract finalisation for Tweedbank will conclude by December 2025. Main construction is expected to commence in January 2026, with completion targeted for June 2027.
A full business case for the Hawick care developments will be presented to Council in February 2026 and to the Integration Joint Board in March 2026.
Engagement with stakeholders, including residents, carers, staff, Registered Social Landlords, NHS Borders, and other partner providers, will also continue to be undertaken to help inform the final design and delivery of both projects.
A drop-in session is being planned for Tweedbank on Friday 26 September, 11am-1pm, in the Inspire Academy building adjacent to the railway station. The invitation is open to anyone with an interest in the development and will provide an opportunity to explore the newly approved plans, get a preview of the proposed colour scheme and experience some of the innovative technology that will be used to deliver care. More information will be available closer to the time with details publicised on the Council’s website and social media channels.
A detailed engagement plan for Hawick will be developed and shared in due course.
