Scottish Borders Housing Association has received planning approval to construct 59 affordable homes on the site of what was once one of Selkirk's largest employers. According to BBC News, the development marks a significant step forward in addressing the region's housing shortage. The Heather Mills, which operated for nearly 150 years before closing in 2009, was severely damaged by fire approximately a decade later and subsequently demolished.
The planning committee approved the Whinfield Road project on November 2, 2026, at Scottish Borders Council's Planning and Building Standards Committee meeting, according to the Border Telegraph. Julia Mulloy, chief executive of Scottish Borders Housing Association, framed the development as part of a broader response to Scotland's housing crisis.
Scotland is facing a housing emergency, and developments like this are part of the solution.
What is the housing situation in the Scottish Borders?
The Scottish Borders Council declared a housing emergency more than two years ago following a report that identified "significant challenges" in ensuring residents had access to suitable accommodation. The scale of demand became evident when Scottish Borders Housing Association received 104 applications for just five new homes at its most recent development in Kelso, demonstrating how the number of social housing applications had doubled over a five-year period.
The council has set an ambitious target to construct 9,000 new homes across the Scottish Borders over the next decade. Councillor Sandy Scott, speaking at the planning committee meeting, described the Heather Mills proposal as a
very welcome and exciting applicationthat directly supports this strategic goal.
What will the new homes look like?
The approved low-rise scheme comprises two-storey homes and cottage flats, each featuring a private garden, according to the Border Telegraph. Councillor Marshall Douglas welcomed the design, highlighting the modern housing standards and heat efficiency measures incorporated into the plans. He noted that the homes would provide good family accommodation for the local area.
What concerns were raised about the development?
The planning committee considered several objections to the scheme. Four formal objections raised concerns about the loss of trees on the site, the possibility of asbestos contamination, and potential increases in traffic. However, the planning report concluded that "on balance" the proposals were acceptable, and councillors voted to approve the application.
What is the history of the mill site?
The mill was originally established as Cheviot Mill when it opened in 1864 and was renamed Heather Mills in 1892, according to the Border Telegraph. After operating for nearly 150 years as a significant employer in Selkirk, the facility closed in 2009. The subsequent fire damage led to its demolition, leaving the site vacant until this housing development was proposed. The council's 2023–28 Strategic Housing Investment Plan had previously identified the site's capacity as 70 homes, with its mixed-use allocation noted as a planning constraint.
Key Facts
- 59 affordable homes will be built on the former Heather Mills site in Selkirk
- The mill operated for nearly 150 years before closing in 2009 and was demolished following fire damage
- Scottish Borders Council declared a housing emergency over two years ago due to surging demand for social housing
- The development includes two-storey homes and cottage flats, each with private gardens and modern heat efficiency features
- The council aims to build 9,000 new homes across the Scottish Borders within the next decade
