'Most magnificent barn in the Borders' set for upgrade

A Georgian mansion once described as "the most magnificent barn in the Borders" is in line for an upgrade.

Torwoodlee House was built in 1783 near Galashiels on the estate which has been run by the Pringle family since 1500.

The current owner, James Pringle, the 14th laird, has submitted plans to Scottish Borders Council for alterations to the property's east wing to make it habitable once again.

Improvement works have been carried out to the rest of the building down the years but that section has remained largely untouched for decades.

The Torwoodlee Estate spreads across 3,000 acres (1,200 hectares) in the Scottish Borders.

It comprises two farms, a golf course, letting cottages, fishing beats and woodland as well as the mansion building.

The property was built by the ninth laird of Torwoodlee, replacing the older tower house with a more modern, grander residence.

The proposed work would include removal of internal partitions to enlarge existing living space, and moving both the kitchen and ground floor bathroom, while adding a first floor shower room.

Several fabric alterations proposed include replacement of windows and slate roof.

The current laird said the house had been described as a "magnificent barn" not long after it was completed.

"When the house was built in 1783 it would have been a standalone building in the landscape," he said.

"There were no trees, there was no woodland around it and it would have looked pretty stark."

He said he thought it was probably the local press at the time that coined the phrase as it was a "pretty square-looking building".

"Whether it was pejorative at the time or whether it was to say it was actually pretty magnificent and grand I have no idea," he admitted.

He added that the east wing had been largely untouched since the mid-1980s.

"It has been derelict for 40-odd years and we're now feeling that the time has come to spend some money on it and turn it into a liveable space again so that it can be loved and looked after," he said.

"It's as simple as that - simply rejuvenating the whole place but in a liveable style."

A design statement submitted in support of the application said: "The works will be carried out by a high-quality contractor who demonstrates excellent experience in conservation work and these will be carefully supervised throughout.

"The proposed internal alterations have minimal impact on the historic significance of the building, however they will make a positive impact on the performance and practicality of the building.

"We are confident that the proposed alterations will transform the building into a comfortable, sustainable and welcoming home, fit for 21st Century living.

"This vision is critical for the long-term interest and safeguarding of the east wing."