May 18, 2011
Minimising risks, maximising benefits
For a community to take over the running of any building, let alone an iconic town hall, it can be a high risk venture. For a Council too, there are inherent risks in transferring a building to a community group. Perth and Kinross Council should be commended for the very sensible and creative solution they’ve come up with in Aberfeldy
The sun shone as the keys to the Aberfeldy Town Hall were handed over to Ron Young, chairman of the community company, Locus Breadalbane.
Perth and Kinross Council has given Locus Breadalbane a licence to run the hall for two years to develop the full potential of the building and the grounds for both locals and tourists – a big step on the way to the eventual transfer of the building to the community in Highland Perthshire.
Locus will market the Town Hall and the Locus Centre in the town square as a comprehensive set of facilities. These will include the availability of small offices, two medium halls (one with catering) and a large hall with stage and stage lighting.
In this way a range of needs can be met, from those wanting a room for two hours use for a small group, to space for a ceilidh, or a wedding or party with catering.
The whole operation is staffed by local people and volunteers who want to see the town hall preserved for community use.
Open Day Programme
Town hall committee chairman Norman McCandlish told Comment: “We’ll celebrate the handover with an Open Day on Saturday 28 May. This will showcase the facilities, celebrate the history of Aberfeldy and Highland Perthshire and give local groups a chance to show off their wares and attract new members.”
“We welcome and encourage folk to attend and celebrate bringing this town hall back to a full life at the heart of Aberfeldy and Highland Perthshire,” the chairman concluded.