Supporting Statement
In 2001 Inverclyde Council agreed to rationalise Kilmacolm’s community facility needs. In...
Read more
In 2001 Inverclyde Council agreed to rationalise Kilmacolm’s community facility needs. In 2002 the Kilmacolm Village Centre ‘Forum’ was established to explore options. In 2003 the ‘Forum’ incorporated itself as a company limited by guarantee, obtained charitable status, and Kilmacolm New Community Centre Company was formed to deliver and operate what is now an admired public-private community venture.
Development and planning progressed steadily and final plans emerged early in 2008 after a major viability reappraisal including a redesign of the smaller ‘List C’ building. KNCCC’s Business Plan was approved and a building contract awarded in September 2009.
Construction work was extensive, at times complicated, lasting 15 months, whilst maintaining day-to-day vehicle and pedestrian access to the main village car park through the site and constantly under the watchful eyes of the community.
The transformed buildings and new village square now form a campus in the heart of Kilmacolm life known as ‘The Cargill Centre’ – a title selected to reflect the importance of the £1m grant provided by the WA Cargill Fund - a major factor in the project’s initiation.
The Community Centre is designed over three levels incorporating an ingenious central galleried ‘atrium’ feature which ensures internal daylight gain via new large roof-light and reformed windows. It offers a range of flexible meeting spaces, two multi-purpose halls and community café. The Public Library is on ground level. The Commercial space is over two levels - the upper level formed by feature Glulam dual- pitch trusses.