Construction work has started to create a new community hub in the former Springhill Community Centre in Shotts.
The redeveloped building is being managed by Getting Better Together (GBT) – Shotts on behalf of the Springhill community to create a modern space with facilities for a wide range of activities and events.
The community group was joined by representatives from North Lanarkshire Council (NLC), The Environmental Key Fund, Scottish Power Renewables and GBT to mark the start of construction work on site.
GBT’s executive manager Mark Slorance said: “We at GBT are delighted that construction has started, this marks the next stage of an exciting journey which began in 2019, when the community took ownership of the current facility.
“Getting to this stage has only been possible due to the dedication and support from GBT Staff, NLC, our funding partners, and of course the community.
“Everybody involved should be congratulated for making this vision a reality and bringing a modern community hub to the area.
The project is being part funded by Scottish Government Regeneration Capital Grant Fund, Environmental Key Fund and NLC.
When it opens next year, the community hub will offer a range of services for all ages.
These include a youth group and holiday programme for kids; adult learning services focused on building local people’s numeracy and literacy skills and social activities for older people with a key focus on addressing isolation and loneliness.
There will also be community health outreach clinics, well-being and health and fitness programmes.
“This will be an excellent facility at the heart of the community, and I would like to congratulate everyone at GBT for their tireless efforts to reach this milestone in the project,” said Councillor Paul Di Mascio, convener of the enterprise, growth and fair work committee.
“The council has contributed to the costs and provided support to help the group secure other funding to ensure this project can deliver a high quality building that meets the needs of all the local groups who will use it.”
GBT took over the running of the hall from the council in 2017 to redevelop the facility, then bought the hall and land in 2019.
The group has worked with the council on the funding application and plans for the facility. Work is expected to be complete in March 2023.
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