Future of Invergordon Town Hall back in the frame as councillors welcome community proposal

ROSS-SHIRE councillors today welcomed moves in Invergordon that could see a landmark building brought under community control.

Highland Council's Ross and Cromarty committee welcomed plans for the formation of a new development trust to take the lead on securing the future of Invergordon Town Hall.

At the November 2018 meeting of the Ross and Cromarty committee, members agreed to explore options for the Invergordon Common Good Fund – including disposal of the hall by sale or a long lease.

Following formal consultation under the Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015 with the community, a report providing an update was presented to the committee today.

That included information on an emerging proposal for a new development trust to be established to take on and refurbish the building.

The Town Hall, which is owned by the Invergordon Common Good Fund, is currently rented to High Life Highland and is used by community groups. However the rental income does not cover the running costs or energy costs. The building also requires "significant refurbishment", according to Highland Council. And despite a number of grant applications, it has not been possible to identify a refurbishment package for the required works.

As well as members welcoming the new Invergordon Development Trust, they have agreed to allow the Trust more time to develop a proposal if required.

Councillors will be given regular updates on progress to enable review and consideration of the next steps.

* How would you like to see the hall used? Email newsdesk@spp-group.com

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