Bridgend Inspiring Growth has celebrated the opening of its new community hub
The remarkable restoration of an old farmhouse was celebrated last weekend.
A community project to revamp a 19th century farmhouse in Bridgend, Edinburgh, started eight years ago.
Bridgend Inspiring Growth unveiled its new community hub, which is situated inside the old house, at a launch party on Saturday (March 24).
A community garden, café, cinema, office and exhibition space are amongst the facilities hosted at the centre – with the building transferred to the community via an urban asset transfer.
Claire Stevens, a trustee of the group, said the farmhouse was derelict and burnt-out when the project began but seemed to be in the perfect position for a community facility due to its proximity to Craigmillar Castle Park and Bridgend Allotments.
“The farmhouse seemed ideally positioned for us to think about an alternative type of community centre, close to nature and environmentally sustainable," she said.
“Following hundreds of meetings and consultation days with members of the local community, volunteering events, grant applications and discussions with the local council, that seed has flourished and grown.”
The 11-hour launch event saw Harry and Doris Darling, who were the last people to live in the house and are now in their eighties, officially open the centre.
The day was split into two parts, starting with an afternoon family fun day with lots of outdoor activities and entertainment. People from all walks of life and ages enjoyed activities such as forest skills, storytelling, pizza making, exhibitions and talks by the farmhouse’s architect.
Throughout the day there was music of all kinds, including a Senegalese drumming workshop, a children’s trumpet band and a family ceilidh. Volunteers made and served lunch, dinner and canapes.
The evening session for adults began with a second grand opening, with fantastic light projections onto the pristine white walls of the farmhouse, speeches and toasts. This was followed by open mic sessions featuring poetry and singing, different bands and a ceilidh.
The hard work of volunteers and supporters was praised at the event, with 500 people attending throughout the day.
