Concrete Repairs Limited (CRL) has been appointed to carry out a range of improvements to the category A listed building. The work includes concrete repairs to the stand and turnstiles, drainage improvements and aesthetic enhancements around the stand to restore some of its original features.

The works on the Peter Womersley designed building will be funded by Scottish Borders Council within this year’s capital budget along with a contribution from the Gala Fairydean Rovers Football Community Trust.

The Netherdale Stand has been closed since winter 2018 due to significant public health and safety concerns associated with spalling concrete. A structural assessment by CRL was initially conducted in 2019 highlighting the required repairs needed to the stand.

Councillor Gordon Edgar, executive member for roads and infrastructure for Scottish Borders Council, said: “Anyone who is familiar with the town of Galashiels will recognise the iconic architecture of the Netherdale Stand and its importance to the town.

“I’m extremely excited to see work on repairing the building to its former glory progress with the appointment of an experienced contractor.

“Ensuring its long-term future by carrying out these necessary refurbishments will allow future generations to benefit from it and return the stand to its former glory.”

Murray Souter, regional director for Scotland at Concrete Repairs Limited, said: “Concrete Repairs Limited are delighted to be entrusted with the refurbishment of this iconic structure and our team are looking forward to spending the spring and summer months of 2022 in Galashiels working.

“Together with Scottish Borders Council and their design team, we will return the stand to its original glory, looking great, structurally sound, and ready to cope with a full complement of excited Gala Fairydean Rovers fans.”

Ross Buchan, chairman of Gala Fairydean Rovers Community Trust, speaking on behalf of the Gala Fairydean Rovers Family, the Football Club and the Community Trust, said: “The Stand Repair Project has been a long journey which began for us in October 2017. The Stand is part of our architectural and historic heritage and it’s listing places a duty on us, the community, to preserve the structure for future generations.

“We have now reached a significant stage on this journey, where, Scottish Borders Council have appointed of the principal contractor to carry out the works. We welcome Concrete Repairs Limited (CRL) onto the project and look forward to working in cooperation and partnership with them also.

“It will be a day to celebrate when the Stand is opened to the Public, Club and Community where we can once again make full use of this very important facility.

“The project has benefitted from working in cooperation and partnership with Scottish Borders Council, Historic Environment Scotland, Fallago Environmental Fund, Live Borders, Gala Fairydean Rovers Football Club, Gala Fairydean Rovers Football Club Community Trust and our very experienced Design Team.”

The anticipated completion date of the refurbishment is August 2022.