3 days ago
'Significant milestone' reached in bid to transform church hall in Paisley into community hub
Ferguslie Community Development Trust's request for an asset transfer of St Ninian's Church Hall has been validated.
A "significant milestone" has been reached in a bid to transform an old church hall in Paisley's Ferguslie Park into a thriving community hub.
Ferguslie Community Development Trust's (FCDT) request for a community asset transfer (CAT) of the former St Ninian's Church Hall in Blackstoun Road has been validated by Renfrewshire Council.
A decision on the application for a long-term lease of the facility, which has lain vacant since 2020, is set to be made at a future meeting of the CAT sub-committee.
John McIntyre, chair of the trust, said: "This validation marks a significant milestone in our journey to create a vibrant, inclusive space for Ferguslie Park and the wider Renfrewshire area."
FCDT's vision is to transform the hall into a multi-purpose venue that supports all generations and complements but doesn't duplicate existing community facilities.
Activities that could be hosted at the building, which the trust said have been identified through consultation, include children's birthday parties and a soft play area; weddings, funerals and community celebrations; film screenings and stage performances; youth programmes, wellbeing groups and training workshops; and arts and heritage events celebrating Ferguslie's culture.
To support its vision, FCDT has explained it is actively engaging with potential funders to secure resources for capital improvements and staffing.
Works would be carried out on a phased basis, with the toilets reconfigured and kitchen space assessed in the first phase; installation of moveable partitions in meeting space and additional storage in the second phase; and a new kitchen and café space created and heating system upgraded in the third phase.
Mr McIntyre added: "We are committed to ensuring this centre is not only fit for purpose but also financially viable. Our team is working diligently to secure the necessary funding to bring this vision to life.
"We believe this project will be a game-changer for Ferguslie Park, offering a space that brings people together, supports wellbeing and celebrates community pride."
FCDT is expecting a decision on the asset transfer by early January and said this timeline allows the trust time to recruit volunteers willing to contribute their time and energy to help deliver activities.
It plans to promote these opportunities via its website and Facebook page, encouraging residents to get involved and help shape the future of the asset.
