Scottish Borders Council has approved an application for the change of use of the Old Mission Hall in Bourtree Terrace to a venue called The Old Curiosity Bookshop.
The second hand book-store actually opened its doors and started trading in March of this year before formal planning approval for the conversion was agreed.
The aim is to use the ground floor of the building as a bookshop and the upstairs as a cultural venue, where occasional talks and meetings are held.
The applicant, Tina Louise Gayle, moved to Hawick from the East Midlands to launch the venture.
Two objections to the application were made by neighbours, who cited issues such as fire safety, increased traffic and insufficient parking spaces.
The applicant responded to the concerns, addressing the fire risk by stating: “Fire risk is minimal, you can set fire to a piece of paper, but a book needs a temperature of 451 Fahrenheit to burn so it would need an incendiary bomb to start a fire in there.
“I have two exit points, fire doors, and plenty of fire extinguishers. The biggest fire risk is the kettle!”
In a statement in support of the application she also stated: “I have purchased a house and this business premises and live in Hawick as a Council Tax payer and shopper.
“I am the only second-hand bookshop in the Borders and will bring visitors to the town centre who will buy lunches and bring other revenue to the High Street.
“It is by nature a quiet business, no noise, bright lights, or any social problems. Book buyers are mostly older, educated and quiet people.
“I provide a free bookcase in the hallway for people without the money to buy a book, to give back to the community.”