Galashiels tapestry visitor attraction’s opening date put back

The opening of a visitors centre in Galashiels which tells the story of Scotland through one of the world’s largest tapestries has been put back.Scottish Borders Council said that the Great Tapestry of Scotland visitor attraction will open to the public in spring 2021 and not September 2020 as originally planned.While the building works are expected to be completed on schedule, the decision has been made to wait until the following spring “in order to capitalise on the peak tourism season”.A report to the local authority’s executive committee said the £6.7 million project remained on budget.The council said the building which is seen as a catalyst for the wider regeneration of Galashiels.Ogilvie Construction was appointed to build the facility on a previously derelict town centre site earlier this year.The Stirling-based contractor is making good progress with the building, with installation of its steel structure nearing completion and colourful hoardings in place around the site which include tapestry welcome panel ideas from local schoolchildren.Construction of the roof and external walls is due to follow in the coming months.The new building which will house the tapestry has been designed by architectural practice PagePark, while the adjacent former Post Office will be re-purposed to bring the B-listed building back into use. There will also be retail, café, educational and touring exhibition space, as well as an ongoing events and exhibitions programme.Meanwhile, internationally experienced director, entrepreneur and expert marketer Sandy Maxwell-Forbes, has been named as the centre director.