Bishopmill Hall committee thanks funders after £35k modernisation programme completed
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A COMMUNITY hall has completed a £35,000 modernisation programme to help save on energy bills and give users a more comfortable experience.
Bishopmill Hall was literally losing money in energy costs with its draughty windows, admitted secretary Lesley Williamson.
Like most community groups, the hall's income only really covers the general running costs, so any improvements have to be funded by special events or applying to various charitable funding streams.
Covid meant it was impossible for the Bishopmill Mutual Improvement Association (BMIA) to run any community events to raise its own funds.
"We therefore launched a project to source funding to help subsidise the £35k cost of double glazing," added Lesley.
The decision was taken to split the project into three smaller phases.
"The first and most costly phase was the main hall and gents toilet but the timing was perfect as we were very fortunate to apply to the Moray Council Common Good Fund. They were in a position to grant us £15,000 which was an amazing boost."
Lesley said this phase has made the most impact in terms of upgrading the look of the building and there have been many compliments, not only from user groups noticing the improvement in heat retention, but also from the community on the exterior transformation.
The second phase was the ladies toilets and supper room.
"We had already improved the supper room floor and paintwork while the hall wasn’t being used due to Covid restrictions.
"Thankfully our application to Awards for All was successful. Their £9000 grant allowed us to proceed with phase two. The new windows in this room have made an amazing difference to such a lovely hall space."
Both the Gordon and Ena Baxter Foundation and the Adam Family Foundation pledged £4000 and £6000 respectively to help with the third and final phase to replace the kitchen and rear corridor windows.
Lesley said: "Without all of these generous funding sources doing so much for local communities, smaller charities like the BMIA would be unable to have a sustainable future. The committee would like to thank each of them all for their support."
She also thanked the main contractor and supplier Moray Glass.
"Neil McAndrew was able to offer invaluable advice from his experience working with other Moray halls.
"His professional window fitters were just exceptional and they were able to complete the three phases with very little disruption to our hall users."
And she added a final thanks to Elgin Councillor Sandy Keith, one of the hall trustees, who was a great support to her as secretary/treasurer during the finding and planning applications.
The BMIA Bishopmill Hall is a registered charity and was built in the early 1930’s with an extension being added in the mid 60’s.
Added Lesley: "Like any old building there is a constant need to maintain and upgrade to keep the facility as a desirable sustainable option when community groups require a venue.The next project is always just around the corner."
