BY AN overwhelming majority, the people of Lauderdale have voted to have a new health centre built on Common Good land at Crofts Road in Lauder.
In a referendum organised by NHS Borders, there was a turnout of 65 per cent with 1,432 ballot papers returned from adults registered at the town’s only medical practice.
After the count, which was held in the public hall today (Friday), returning officer Dr Paul Cormie announced that 1,193 people (83 per cent) had voted for the new facility at Crofts Road, with 248 voting against the project.
The result was greeted by applause from most of the the 50 or so members of the public who watched the count, which was carried out by staff from Scottish Borders Council.
Council leader David Parker, whose local authority will provide new play faciltities close to the site, said he was “delighted” with the outcome.
NHS Borders intends starting preparatory work at the Crofts Road site this summer with completion due a year later.