Plans to turn an old church hall into a thriving community hub in Paisley have taken a step forward.
Ferguslie Community Development Trust (FCDT) has submitted its application to take ownership of St Ninian’s Church Hall as part of ambitious proposals to create a venue for cultural, wellbeing and educational experiences.
The hall – situated on Ferguslie Park Avenue – has lain vacant since 2020. The trust, made up of community volunteers, has now submitted its community asset transfer (CAT) application to Renfrewshire Council.
If approved and funding obtained, the space will be renovated to offer a large open-plan hall and events space with a stage, meeting rooms and a new kitchen and community cafe. New toilets will be installed alongside a store and office.
Solar panels also feature on the proposal in order to generate the energy needed to ensure the hall meets green energy targets established by the council and to ensure running costs are sustainable going forward.
The proposed plans were shared with members of the community at a recent information event. John McIntyre, chair of FCDT, said: “Securing St Ninian’s for the community is a game-changer for Ferguslie Park.
“Our vision is to create a welcoming, inclusive space that strengthens community connections, supports local groups and provides new opportunities for residents of all ages. This is a project led by the people of Ferguslie, for the people of Ferguslie.”
He added: “The event was really well attended and there was great interest from young people as well as adults. The young people were really vocal in putting their ideas forward and, crucially, they said they would use the space if it was there.
“We also had a virtual reality headset, featuring the architect’s drawings, which allowed people to walk through the space and visualise what it could look like.”
The spaces have, John says, been designed with community groups in mind. He hopes the hall could be used for cultural activities such as small concerts, film nights, the arts community and theatre groups.
With a keen focus on bolstering wellbeing, it’s also hoped the hall will provide a great venue for exercise classes, karate clubs and toddler groups. The meeting rooms could be used for smaller groups and also training and education purposes.
The initial drawings, community consultations, feasibility studies and business case have been made possible through a £24,500 grant which has been delivered from Renfrewshire Council’s sustainable communities fund.
The next step for the trust is to secure validation of their CAT application. It is in the interim awaiting feedback from the architect and quantity surveyor who are currently working to cost the of works. These will then be used to apply for grants from third-party organisations to get the initiative off the ground.
John added: “The St Ninian’s project presents a significant opportunity to enhance community wellbeing, provide essential services, and create a sustainable community asset. The business plan provides a clear roadmap for ownership, development, and long-term success.”
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