The inclusion of a 2G pitch in the new £4.8 million sports hub at Peebles High School is the correct decision, according to Councillor Catriona Bhatia.
Monday saw a sod cutting ceremony take place at the biggest school in the region as work began on the development, which includes a four-court games hall, fitness suite, sprint track and long jump track.
The 2G synthetic pitch will be built instead of a 3G surface which can be used by both football and rugby but Councillor Bhatia backed its inclusion in the scheme, which is due to be completed by April next year.
She told us: “There were extensive discussions about the pitch and the preference from the school and community was for a surface that would facilitate hockey.
“The good news is that Peebles is also going to get a 3G pitch and a feasibility study into the best location for that pitch is underway.”
The facilities, which also include a new classroom, changing rooms and general purpose hall, have been designed by Scottish Borders Council’s architects and will be built by Graham Construction. SBC have provided £4.3m, with sportscotland providing the remaining £500,000.
SBC’s education representative, Councillor Sandy Aitchison, said: “I know that the staff and pupils at Peebles High School are looking forward to using the new facilities and will benefit greatly in terms of their sports education and health.”