Aytoun Hall transformation begins
Last updated | 18/03/2010
Perth & Kinross Council and community representatives in Auchterarder have this week celebrated the start of works to secure the long-term future of the Aytoun Hall as a community facility for the people of the Lang Toon. Contractors Mansell Construction have begun preliminary works on site.
Plans for the refurbishment were drawn-up following extensive consultation with residents by Perth & Kinross Council and the Auchterarder Leisure and Recreation Association (ALRA). Around £900,000 of the £1.4m project has been funded by the Council, in addition to £500,000 pledged in 2005 by the then First Minister as a gesture of gratitude to the people of Auchterarder following the G8 Summit.
The Hall will be refurbished over the next few months by Mansell, with the key elements of the works comprising:
• The configuration of ground floor spaces creating a new open entrance/gallery area, relocated Council office and meeting rooms, galley and commercial kitchens, and the creation of new toilets and storage areas
• The installation of a lift to the upper floor and the reinstatement of the former snooker hall to a new small hall
• Improvements to heating, lighting, acoustics, and IT infrastructure
• General furnishing and equipping of the hall to a modern standard
The Hall is scheduled to reopen in the final quarter of 2010.
Councillor Ian Miller, Leader of Perth & Kinross Council welcomed the progress on the refurbishment project: "The commitment we have made to the people of Auchterarder will ensure that the Aytoun Hall continues to be a valuable asset for the local community for many years to come.
"This major investment in community facilities in Auchterarder will have great long-term benefits for local residents and the ambitious refurbishment and modernisation of the Hall is something we are all very excited about."
Depute Leader of the Administration, Councillor George Hayton said: " Through close working with ALRA, we identified the best approach for the Aytoun Hall to maintain its significant role in the community for the future.
"I am pleased to welcome Mansell Construction on-site to get the refurbishment underway and look forward to seeing the works completed and the Hall refreshed and revitalised for wide community use in a few months' time."
David Homewood, Chairman of the Auchterarder Leisure & Recreation Association (ALRA) said: "ALRA is delighted that a preferred contractor has been named to undertake the refurbishment of the Aytoun Hall. We know that Mansell Construction is experienced in community regeneration work. Together with Perth and Kinross Council, ALRA is looking forward to forming an effective working partnership from which the Auchterarder community will benefit through the upgrading of the Aytoun Hall."
Construction Manager with Mansell Construction, Scott Ritchie commented: "We recognise the importance of the building to the local community, and Mansell look forward to the safe and successful delivery of the works."
