Councillor stands by decision to purchase Jedburgh's Carnegie library

A local Borders councillor has addressed concerns following his purchase of a landmark building in Jedburgh. John Bathgate acquired the 125-year-old former Carnegie Library through a public sale conducted by Scottish Borders Council.

The community organization, Jedburgh Carnegie Library, had hoped to assume control of the property and expressed deep disappointment that it was sold to a private buyer.

Mr. Bathgate stated his intention to reopen the library for public use while ensuring financial sustainability by converting the upper floor into a holiday rental, themed after the Scottish philanthropist Andrew Carnegie.

According to Councillor Bathgate, all proper procedures were observed during the purchase, and he did not lobby fellow councillors. When the property became available, I consulted the councils legal team and was told I could submit a bid as a citizen and councillor, he said. All procedures were followed correctly, and I abstain from council discussions if the librarys future arises.

The Carnegie-funded library originally closed in 2019. Scottish Borders Council had engaged with community groups before listing the B-listed building for sale. Interest in the property led to the creation of the Jedburgh Carnegie Building group, which proposed transforming it into an arts and music venue. Over the summer and autumn, the group developed a business plan and presented a petition signed by over 1,000 local residents, requesting the council consider an asset transfer.

Dean Freeman of the Jedburgh Carnegie Library group criticized the sale to a private investor, calling it an insult to the town. He claimed the council disregarded their sustained efforts to acquire the building.

Scott Hamilton, depute leader of Scottish Borders Council, confirmed the community group's business proposal was independently reviewed and deemed insufficient to justify the transfer. He emphasized that the councils legal team was involved throughout the process and highlighted the importance of restoring the long-vacant library to preserve its heritage.

Built in 1900 and designed by Sir George Washington Browne, the library features a prominent Let There Be Light stone plaque and once housed up to 12,000 books. The building now awaits its next chapter, combining community access with a holiday rental component to secure its future.

Author: Connor Blake