Independent property consultancy Galbraith has been appointed to bring six empty properties on a historic Borders estate back into use.

The company is working with Roxburghe Estates to restore the former farm cottages at Cessford which have not been habitable for a number of years.

The project has been awarded 40% grant funding through the Scottish Government’s Rural Housing Fund.

Martin Cassels, partner and head of the building surveying division at Galbraith, said: “We are delighted to be assisting Roxburghe Estates with the construction management of this exciting project to bring the cottages back into the local housing market. Having lain empty for a long period this is a significant boost to the local area, with the properties being offered at affordable rents on completion.

“We are also pleased to be assisting the Estate on wider strategic building surveying services and projects, supporting the new Head of Building and well established in-house team as the Estate’s refurbishment, maintenance and repair programme expands.”

Roddy Jackson, factor of Roxburghe Estates, added: “We are pleased to have the assistance of Galbraith’s building surveying team on this project, and across the wider Estate, using their knowledge and resources to complement our well established and respected team.”

Roxburghe Estates directly employees 170 staff, provides 250 affordable houses and makes available land and buildings for community uses and activities.