26-05-2025
Wishaw tradesmen wanted to help restore one of town's famous old buildings
Members of Wishaw YMCA are asking for the community's help to restore the old YM building in the town's Main Street.
Wishaw tradesmen and builders are wanted to help restore one of the town's famous old buildings to its former glory.
Members of Wishaw YMCA are asking for the community's help to restore the old YM building in the town's Main Street.
The YM was forced to close its doors in November 2018 after an unexpected visit from Scottish Fire and Rescue who deemed the building unsuitable.
Before then it was a hub of the community for decades and now the current YMCA committee hope to restore the building.
In a lengthy social media post, Wishaw YMCA state: 'The old Wishaw YMCA building has stood closed for too long. Once a hub of opportunity, connection, and support, it's now a space the community can't use — just when we need it most.
'For the past few years, we've explored every avenue to restore and renovate the building. Over the past 18 months, our hope was that a phased development would attract funding and allow us to gradually bring it back to life.
'But the reality has been harder than we imagined.
'The financial climate has shifted. Capital funding is increasingly limited. And yet — the need for accessible, neutral community space is greater than ever.
'So here's our new approach. We're putting full-scale renovation aside for now. Instead, we're focusing on what's achievable right now.
'That is making the building safe in its current layout; adding accessibility improvements like ramps and a compliant toilet and developing a plan that meets Building Standards and Scottish Fire & Rescue Service requirements.
'To do that, we're inviting local builders, tradespeople, contractors, and suppliers to join us in shaping a realistic, collaborative plan for getting the doors open.
'We're not asking for commitments — we're starting with a conversation. We want your ideas, your knowledge, and your support in helping us take practical next steps.
'Wishaw YMCA has always believed in serving the community, and this building is part of that promise. It was gifted to us by the town — and we feel a deep responsibility to bring it back into use.
'But we also know this won't succeed unless the community is part of the journey.'
The YM will be hosting a builder and trades planning session at the group's current base in Quarry Street on Saturday, June 8.
The YMCA added: 'We believe this building has a future — but only if it's shaped by those who will use it, support it, and take pride in it.
'We envision a space where youth programs can thrive; people can gather, learn, and grow; where local organisations can deliver services and the town can once again take ownership of this shared space.
'Your input can help us make smart decisions that move us forward. Whether you have time, experience, materials, or ideas to share — your voice matters.
'Let's figure out what's possible, and build something for Wishaw.'
The YM has a range of activities taking place at its current base including its well-established esports academy, camera club and WYTV which gives youngsters the chance to become content creators.
However, Wishaw YM chair Mary Jean Ferguson is keen to continue the momentum the group has built up over the past few years.
She said: 'Any help or advice we can get from local builders will really help us moving forward.
'It's not just about the YMCA it's about the whole town. The YM building was gifted to us by the community and I think we have a duty to get it back open and give it back to the community.'
You can join the builder and trades planning session at the YMCA base in Quarry Street, on June 8 starting at 3pm.
If you would like more information then email info@ or find out more at the Wishaw YMCA Facebook page.
