Rutherglen Reformer

It’s hall right now for Castlemilk residents

20-year wait now over

- Jonathan Geddes

A new community hall is available in Castlemilk – after two decades of effort by campaigner­s.

The Netherholm Hall has finally opened, delighted locals who had been fighting for the facility for years.

The hall will host community events and also contains an informatio­n technology suite to deliver learning opportunit­ies for local people.

The venue will run its recentlyan­nounced digital learning initiative known as “CLIC” from there aimed at giving people digital skills.

There will also be a strong focus on activities for children and families while offering something for everyone whether they are young or old.

Campaigner­s first wanted a hall 20 years ago, but struggled to secure funding.

In 2016 the group secured almost £1 million from the Big Lottery Fund Scotland, which enabled them to take their plans forward.

George Alexander, Vice Chair of community group the Netherholm Area Associatio­n which undertook the campaignin­g, said: “This is a great step forward for our community.

“We have campaigned long and hard for a facility such as this and it is wonderful to see it here.

“It has been overwhelmi­ngly welcomed by everyone and the community will put it to good use. Above all, it will help to bring people together.”

The hall was officially opened by former Lord Provost and local councilor Sadie Docherty, who has been a long-standing supporter of the campaign.

Unveiling a commemorat­ive plaque, Sadie said: “This is an important day for the community. All that work has paid off and we have a new community hall which this wonderful community can be very proud of.”

 ??  ?? Delight Residents in Castlemilk celebrate the opening of the new hall recently
Delight Residents in Castlemilk celebrate the opening of the new hall recently

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from United Kingdom