Tweeddale MP David Mundell welcomed a number of positive outcomes from the cross-party, community talks that were held last Friday with RBS to discuss the future of the Veitch’s premise on Peebles High Street. The Local MP believes that having all the key stakeholders at the meeting and presenting a united case to representatives of RBS made a real difference. According to Mr Mundell a strong case was put forward and that those present from RBS appeared to recognise the real strength of feeling in the town and the need to take further steps to ensure an occupier is found. They confirmed to the attendees that a new agent has been appointed to oversee the sale and RBS recognise there have been significant changes to the local property market since the building first became vacant.
The key decision makers who were present from the bank also offered some short term relief, confirming plans to tidy up the shop face and offering to consider community uses for the building in the short to medium term should a buyer not come forward. Representatives of the bank also pledged to support any potential tenants with work which may be necessary to fit the building out ahead of occupation. Mr Mundell believes these steps will help ensure that the building does not fall into a state of disrepair and will reduce the visual prominence of the building in the meantime. He also believes that by making the best of the building and bringing it up to standard that it will make the property more marketable and desirable to potential occupants.
Mr Mundell is now encouraging anyone locally who may be interested in the property to get in touch with the new agent, himself or any of the local councillors who will point them in the right direction.
Commenting David Mundell MP said: “The meeting was a really positive step and saw all the key stakeholders both from RBS and the community brought round one table. Obviously there is still a lot of work to do but the important things was that we got our message across and that RBS have brought forward a number of credible proposals that will help make Veitch’s more presentable and attractive to potential buyers. They also informed us that they have appointed a new agent in an attempt to secure future occupancy and are re-evaluating market conditions.
“I understands the concerns and frustrations of those living locally who have seen the High Street blotted with what is rapidly becoming an eyesore and these proposals and pledges will ultimately be judge on the ability of the bank to get the building occupied. However, it is welcomed news to see the bank stepping up their efforts and engaging with the community and investing in making aesthetic changes that will tidy up the shop face. I will continue to monitor developments closely and would encourage any interested parties locally to approach RBS, myself or any of the local councillors and we will do everything we can to assist.”