'World's oldest purpose-built lodge' saved through £3m injection
Constructed to house a chapter of the Masonic Order, it is thought to be the oldest purpose-built lodge in the world.
Once almost derelict, it has now been transformed into one of the most modern buildings in Port Glasgow in a demonstration of the possibilities of urban renewal.
The building will now house a community hub (Image: Inverclyde council)
The historically significant building, in Port Glasgow, has been revitalised into a modern and environmentally-friendly facility boasting a rare A+ energy efficiency rating, which surpasses net-zero emissions through the incorporation of various sustainable features.
The Category B-listed property will serve as a central resource for local residents and community organisations and will now be known as the Port Glasgow Community Hub to better reflect its new purpose.
The building was almost derelict in 2018 (Image: NQ) The Scottish Government contributed £1.8m, while the local Inverclyde council invested £1.4m over various phases.
The building was officially opened on Tuesday Provost of Inverclyde Drew McKenzie, who cut the ribbon alongside Scottish Government Investment Minister, Tom Arthur.
The facility is being reopened during the 250th year of Port Glasgow being established as a burgh.
Provost McKenzie said: "This remarkable transformation has converted an historic Port Glasgow landmark into one of the most modern and environmentally sustainable properties within Inverclyde.
'Faced with significant disrepair upon its return to the council, demolition would have been the expedient option.
'However, a concerted effort was made to preserve this building and repurpose it positively, an objective that has been successfully realised.'
The building originated as a Masonic hall in 1758 for Lodge Cumberland Kilwinning No.217. It is the second oldest building in Port Glasgow after Newark Castle.
The original hall was expanded over the years and previously served as a town hall, school, and headmaster's house, among other things.
While now owned by Inverclyde Council and managed by Inverclyde Leisure, Lodge 217 will still use the facility and also made a contribution towards restoration costs.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony earlier this week (Image: Inverclyde council) Provost McKenzie added : 'The facility will now function as a vibrant community hub, accessible to a diverse range of local groups and supported by council services.
'The successful completion of this project is a testament to the considerable dedication of the council's inclusive communities, technical services, and property teams, as well as the invaluable support of our funding partners in the Scottish Government.
'The reopening of this building during Port Glasgow's 250th anniversary year is particularly fitting, and I am confident that it will serve as a valuable community asset for many years to come."
Investment Minister, Mr Arthur, said: 'I am pleased that support from the Scottish Government's Regeneration funding programmes have helped ensure the future of the oldest building in Port Glasgow, helping transform it into a real asset for the local community.
'I am sure the Community Hub will have a bright future and will have a hugely positive impact on local people for years to come.'
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The Port Glasgow Community Hub incorporates numerous energy-efficient technologies, including air-source heat pumps, solar panels, under-floor heating, advanced insulation, and modern glazing, establishing it as a leading environmentally-friendly facility in Inverclyde.
The hub is designed to be a key community asset, promoting social inclusion, expanding opportunities for education, and strengthening local support networks.
It will offer a range of accessible facilities and services aimed at enhancing the well-being of local communities.
These include kitchen and cooking facilities, office space, meeting rooms, and outdoor areas with planned growing spaces for produce and plants.
The main contractor for the renovation works was Greenock-based WH Kirkwood.
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