Takeover launched for Dumfries Hall

Feb 13 2009 by Craig Robertson, Dumfries Standard Friday

Hall or nothing

A TAKEOVER bid has been launched for a defunct part of Dumfries’ history.

The Loreburn Hall is the focus of the joint move by the People’s Project and the local YMCA who want to reclaim the Newall Terrace property for the town.

The idea is to turn it into the People’s Hall.

Dumfries YMCA say they want to act as “a broker” for local groups that wish to hire the hall.

And they have got Standard-backed Dumfries regeneration group, the People’s Project, involved to save the now crumbling building.

The old drill hall is etched in the memories of many Doonhamers as the scene for dances, sport and marches over the years.

But it’s now been left facing a future of decay after council bosses shut it down and transferred services to the new DG One leisure complex.

A visit to the site by YMCA officials recently revealed the floor had warped due to dampness and a lack of heating.

But they believe it can and should be saved.

A spokesman said: “The reason for bringing this into the domain of the People’s Project is a general feeling that this is the People’s Hall and should if feasible be used by the people of Dumfries.

“The much-needed arrival of the DG One complex has given the town a real boost regarding sports facilities.

However, for many organisations, many voluntary and charity, the Loreburn Hall lends itself to specific groups and events not necessarily suited to a modern sports facility.

“Also, the Loreburn Hall could act as a good fallback facility for sports groups whose outside facility is un-useable due to freezing weather.”

Mark Jardine, who is behind the People’s Project, said: “There is a need for the Loreburn Hall, it is an important part of Dumfries.

“It is not included in any masterplan for the council and we can’t see this changing so this hall can be used in the meantime for the people of Dumfries.”

Any person, group or organisation that has an interest in the Loreburn Hall re-opening or would want to use it, should contact the YMCA on 01387 253887 or email the Standard at crobertson@s-un.co.uk