As Scotland prepares to head to the polls this Thursday, the outcome of the Scottish Parliament election will have a profound impact on communities and businesses across the Scottish Borders. With ten South of Scotland constituency seats and seven regional MSP positions to be decided, the region will have a strong voice, 17 representatives, in the new parliament.
For many voters, a central question remains: who will best support the economic wellbeing and future prosperity of the Borders?
A Critical Moment for Rural Enterprise
Trevor Jackson, Chair of the Scottish Borders Chamber of Commerce, has been engaging closely with business leaders and government representatives to highlight the challenges facing local firms. These include rising National Insurance costs, limited digital and transport connectivity, and persistent skills shortages.
While recognising the proactive efforts of Scottish Borders Council in attracting new businesses to the region, Jackson stresses that long-term success depends on political leaders fully understanding the realities of running a business in a rural economy.
“This election is very important for the future of Borders businesses; there is no doubt about that.”
Small Businesses at the Heart of the Economy
Although major employers such as Center Parcs bring valuable investment and jobs, the backbone of the Borders economy remains its small and micro businesses. From sole traders to family-run enterprises, these businesses are working tirelessly to sustain livelihoods and serve their communities.
Jackson emphasises that meaningful economic growth depends on policies that recognise and support these smaller enterprises:
“If we have a government that understands the challenges and values small businesses, we can unlock real economic growth, reducing unemployment, strengthening communities, and creating opportunity.”
Conversely, a lack of understanding or support risks business closures, lost potential, and weakened local economies.
National Priorities with Local Impact
The Scottish Chambers of Commerce (SCC) has outlined five key priorities for the next Scottish Government:
Restoring competitiveness and investment confidence
Delivering infrastructure to power economic growth
Securing the future workforce
Creating conditions for digital leadership
Expanding Scotland’s global reach
Charandeep Singh, Chief Executive of the SCC, highlighted the need for consistency and long-term thinking:
“Businesses cannot plan, let alone invest, when the goalposts constantly shift.”
These priorities closely align with concerns raised locally, including calls for greater investment in education and skills through institutions such as Borders College.
Infrastructure, Skills, and Connectivity
The Chamber continues to advocate for:
Improved transport links, including extension of the Borders Railway
Enhanced digital connectivity across rural areas
Increased housing availability to support workforce growth
Reform of immigration policies to help businesses access talent
Support for small businesses adopting emerging technologies like AI
These are not abstract policy ideas, they are practical enablers of growth, sustainability, and competitiveness in the Borders.
An Informed Choice for Voters
While the Chamber does not endorse any political party, it urges voters to carefully consider the positions and commitments of local candidates. Jackson noted:
“We need politicians now more than ever who will stand up for the Borders and be counted,”
Understanding the nuances between devolved and UK-level responsibilities can be challenging, but the importance of informed voting cannot be overstated. The strength, clarity, and advocacy of elected representatives will directly influence how effectively Borders businesses are supported in the years ahead.
Looking Ahead
The Scottish Borders Chamber of Commerce remains committed to working with elected representatives, regardless of party, to ensure that the voices of local businesses are heard loud and clear.
As the election approaches, the message is simple: strong local economies depend on strong local representation. By backing candidates who understand the needs of Borders businesses, voters can help shape a more resilient, prosperous future for the region.
