Glenfarg schoolhouse to be transformed into community centre

Residents in Glenfarg will turn a former schoolhouse into a community centre after being given £229,140 to buy the property.

The building will extend the range of community events on offer in the village.

Cedric Wilkins, chairman of Glenfarg Village Halls, said: “This is a huge boost for the Glenfarg community. It will enable us to go ahead with our plans to develop the existing hall into a community centre which will be a long-term asset for the village.

“The village has no pubs or cafes or other informal meeting spaces and the acquisition of the school house will allow for the development of a range of new activities including a youth club, a pensioners’ club, and a cafe, as well as breakfast and afterschool care for children.”

The Glenfarg Community Centre is one of ten groups across Scotland sharing in £1,646,972 of Scottish Land Fund cash.

Land Reform Secretary Roseanna Cunningham said it was great news for the residents of Glenfarg and the other projects.

“There are fine examples of land and assets coming into community ownership, allowing local people to get the maximum benefit from them.

“I know that today’s funding marks a major milestone for them and will make a real difference in helping those successful community groups to realise their ambitions.”

John Watt, Scottish Land Fund committee chairman, said: “Through these grants, the Scottish Land Fund is helping people from all over Scotland to make a difference in both inner city areas and in rural communities. From land purchases for amenity and the provision of affordable housing, to creating facilities for local people and visitors, these grants provide the funding to provide solutions to local needs.”

The Scottish Land Fund is keen to support more applications from across Scotland and particularly within urban areas.

Groups considering applying should contact the Big Lottery Fund to discuss their idea by phoning 0300 123 7110.