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, which owns 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 the 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.

A detailed engagement plan for Hawick will be developed and shared in due course. 

Councillor David Parker, executive member for Integrated Care and Support Services, said: “This report represents a major step forward in our ongoing efforts to deliver modern, compassionate and future-proofed care services for our communities. Both the Hawick and Tweedbank developments reflect our dedication to listening to local voices, responding to evolving needs, and investing in care models that promote independence, dignity and wellbeing. By embracing innovation and evidence-based planning, we’re laying the foundations for a more inclusive and resilient care system that will support people across the Borders for years to come.

“The officers working on the revised plans for Hawick have done so extremely thoroughly to fully understand the mix of care and need that is required. What they’re proposing is both innovative and exciting, developed with our partners including NHS Borders, Registered Social Landlords and the Third Sector, and I would like to commend everyone involved for all their efforts.

“I’m particularly pleased that they are suggesting such a sensible solution for Deanfield and that this quality care home setting, with its excellent staff team who are so well respected by the community, will not only continue to operate but be able to enhance the services they provide.

“It’s also extremely encouraging to hear about the strong progress that is being made at Tweedbank, and I would similarly like to commend the project team for their ongoing hard work. I look forward to the drop-in session on 26 September and would encourage anyone looking to find out more about the development to come along and join us.”