Forres Area Community Trust has invested £50,000 from the Scottish Government in insulation for Forres Town Hall
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A HISTORIC community building in the centre of Forres is to be insulated for the first time thanks to funding voted for by the public.
Forres Area Community Trust (FACT) has invested £50,000 from the Scottish Government’s Just Transition Fund administered by TSI Moray and Money for Moray in making the improvement to Forres Town Hall.
FACT operations manager Nick Clark confirmed there is currently no insulation in the building that has been revived by the development trust since its Community Asset Transfer from Moray Council in 2019.
He explained: “This is having a major impact on running costs.
“Losing heat through the roof means we are having to have the heating set higher so that users are kept warm.”
He added: “To be granted funding support in this way is great for the local area.
“We have gone for wool from Ultimate Insulation Supplies because that particular product gives an all round performance and is great value for money.
“It is breathable, durable and sustainable.
“We are storing it in its packaging in the town hall when it starts arriving at the beginning of April.
“We hope to get volunteers to help.
“The installation will be carried out when the building is refurbished.”
Forres Town Hall has played a significant role in the local community for nearly two centuries since it was built by Aberdeen architect Archibald Simpson.
Its uses have included becoming the Mechanics’ Institute in 1845 which established a library for the working class, and as a hospital during World War I.
Since 2018, when FACT started managing the building, user groups including Forres and District Pipe Band, the Varis Players, Film Forres and the Forres Royal Scottish Country Dance Society have been using the space.
FACT have more than doubled occupancy of the building with new groups including Moray Food Plus and Guide Dog training.
FACT also offers activities such as the Forres Online drop in sessions and the Cameron Project to reduce social isolation.
The town hall also provides a community hub, consultancy, co-working space and development opportunities.
FACT development manager, Debbie Herron, said the funding will help with long term building improvements.
She said: “We are in the process of applying for the funds for the redevelopment of the building.
“This includes to the Scottish Government, the UK Government, private trusts and public funders such as the National Lottery Heritage Fund.”
