Plans for a knitwear centre in Hawick have been shelved

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.

"Sadly the situation has not been helped by the recent closure of two of the town's major knitwear companies, one of which was a major customer of the college."