College cancels knitwear centre
BBC News
Borders College has cancelled plans to house a knitwear and design technical centre within its new community facility which is opening in Hawick.
A major reason given has been closures at two local textile firms, Douglas of Scotland and John Laing.
College principal Bob Murray expressed regret at having to reconsider the plans in the new Wilton Mills building.
He added that despite efforts to boost the centre’s profile, it was difficult to justify the investment required.
Recent closures
Mr Murray said the introduction of a garment design and production service in the town had also had an impact on the demand for the centre’s services.
He added: “We regret that we will have to re-consider the future of the design centre as part of the college.
“Despite our substantial recent efforts to boost the profile of the centre it has been very difficult to justify the on-going investment required, which does question its longer-term sustainability.
