Plans for a fast food outlet and new retail store in Commercial Road hang in the balance after an objection to the proposal by the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA).
SEPA objected to the proposed development – set to create some 50 jobs in the town – in July on the grounds of “flood risk”.
If it maintains its objection, there will be further delay as the application would then be referred to Scottish Ministers, pending the approval of Scottish Borders Council.
Rumours have been rife that the prospect of bringing a fast-food operator and relocating B&M Bargains from Croft Road to Commercial Road are “pretty much dead in the water”, but local developer Gavin Stevenson remains optimistic, with discussions ongoing.
“We are hoping that SEPA will make a determination by the end of the week and that, as quickly as possible thereafter, we will have a decision from the council,” he said.
“This has dragged on for a long time – since last year, and we are hoping we can keep our tenants in place.
“We have been promised a decision by today (Friday).”
Provost Watson McAteer commented: “I’ve been told that plans to build a fast food outlet and retail store on the site of the Bruce Motors garage may be scrapped with the developer critical of the lack of support received from the council.
“I have repeatedly warned council officers of the risks associated with these enterprises and will be seeking an explanation from all involved if the prospect of new businesses and jobs has been lost due to some bureaucratic process.
“At this stage it would be entirely inappropriate to allocate blame, however, I hope it is not too late for these projects to be saved.
“It is difficult enough to attract new business to Hawick and we must do all we can to ensure that obstacles are removed and access to our town simplified for those wishing to invest in our future.”
Councillor Stuart Marshall added: “Rumours are certainly rife in the town that plans for the relocation of one major retailer and the creation of a new fast food outlet to be built in Commercial Road are all but dead in the water.”
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