Saturday May 2nd 2026
Peebles Autocentre
Written by Local Democracy Reporter, Paul Kelly
A new MOT centre is proposed at a family-run car dealership in Peebles – after flooding fears were allayed.
Peebles Autocentre established its current branding and operation in George Street back in 2022.
However, the business is part of a longer legacy in the local motor trade, with some elements of the parent company dating back to 1972.
Now company owner Bob Brown has submitted an application to Scottish Borders Council for the erection of a new MOT service building at the existing site.
An MOT centre is a garage authorised by the DVSA to conduct annual, legally required safety and environmental checks on vehicles over three years old.
A submission with the application states that flood risk in the area is “very low” and that as a result argues to SBC planners that a Flood Risk Assessment is not needed before the application can be considered.
The report states: “The SEPA flood map of the area has been viewed, and this shows that part of the site to be at high risk of flooding from the Eddleston Water which flanks the site to the rear.
“The section of the site to which the building is being installed is not within the area deemed to be at risk from flooding.
“A small flood defence has been installed along the rear of the site and these will not be disturbed by the works.
“The new building will be installed at least 150mm above the existing site level to protect it from the areas of the site which would be susceptible to flooding.
“There is no risk to the site of surface water or coastal flooding according to the SEPA flood risk map.
“We therefore deem the site’s risk of flooding to be very low and that there is no requirement for a Flood Risk Assessment to accompany the planning application.”
Operating as a retailer, Peebles Autocentre offers services that include part exchange, extended warranties, and home delivery.
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