Tweeddale MP David Mundell, pictured, has renewed calls to keep Peebles Sheriff Court open following news that the planned closure has been postponed.
The MP’s intervention comes as a new working group has been set up to look at three proposals for the Borders:
z one central justice centre, possibly in Galashiels.
z a larger number of smaller justice centres.
z retaining the two existing sheriff courts.
Mr Mundell strongly believes that retaining the exiting sheriff courts in Duns and Peebles is the best option for local justice and that this latest reprieve provides an opportunity for local campaigners to make their voices heard.
Mr Mundell said: “We now have a real opportunity to make sure Peebles Sheriff Court remains open past 2015 and it is important all interested parties work together to make that happens. The court plays a vital role in local justice and brings with it considerable resources and expertise and it is clear that loosing these benefits would be bad for the community.”