Update March 2007
The mild weather in November allowed the building to progress nicely over November and December. The framework seemed to take no time at all and soon we had a building which was starting to resemble the plans.
It was not without problems however and it’s perhaps through these that others carrying out similar projects can learn. The application to Scottish Water was lodged in April 2006 but took until January 2007 to be approved. Plans sent by SW showed the water connection point as being outside the site gate but excavations around that area proved futile. SW admitted that their plan was wrong and they have undertaken to excavate and make the connection themselves. Residents of Craigie Avenue are undoubtedly the ones suffering the most inconvenience during this time and we hope that SW will complete this job soon.
As we moved into December, Barry (left) the Site Agent was determined to have the building wind and watertight by the Christmas holidays. Doors and windows were installed and the profile steel sheeting for the roof arrived. The building is T-shaped so many were surprised to hear that the first section erected was not the actual main hall but the meeting rooms, lounge and changing rooms (next to the football field). Barry’s wind and watertight plan succeeded much to Contracts Manager Colin’s (right) delight!
This interior view is from the top end of the foyer looking down through the IT room and male changing rooms towards the football field. February saw the underfloor heating being laid and the “first fix” wiring by the electricians. The deep trenches for the ground source heating loops were dug and the loops laid. The building contractors are due to complete by end May and if there are no major snags the opening is planned for 18th August - put that date in your diary now!
February also saw us hosting a one day workshop for CADISPA members from all over Scotland who are involved in building village halls within their communities. Speaking to others who have already built new halls keeps us informed about a variety of issues: hall charges, employment legislation, future maintenance issues, communications, hall management, furniture and equipment suppliers, etc. In return, we can offer advice to other members who are just starting out on the road to raising funds.
We welcomed representatives from Communities Scotland’s Futurebuilders team who are one of our funding partners and look forward to visits from the Scottish Arts Council, CNPA and Aberdeen University in March.
The Community Hall Directors continue to meet monthly and members are warmly invited to attend. The project committee updates the Directors on monthly building progress and other items such as finance, changes, future planning, etc are discussed.