Council coalition sets out aims

Three groups have signed up to the new coalition

A Conservative, Lib Dem and independent coalition has been confirmed at the helm of Scottish Borders Council.

The proposal was ratified when the authority held its first meeting since the election.

Under the agreement, independent David Parker retains the role of leader, with the deputy leadership shared by Lib Dem Alec Nicol and Tory Neil Calvert.

The council's previous administration was formed by a Conservative and independent coalition.

The Tories are now the biggest single group on the authority, with 11 of the 34 seats.

They are followed by the Lib Dems with 10, SNP with six and independents on five.

There are also two councillors from the newly-created Borders Party.

Council priorities

Once the new administration was confirmed, the coalition set out its priorities for the council.

Among the key issues highlighted was a promise that there would be no council tax rises to pay for the reopening of the Waverley line.

The administration also made a commitment to establish a task force to increase the amount of affordable housing.

A new tourism strategy, protecting rural schools and support for local businesses have also been pledged.