Plans for Falkirk’s new town hall are progressing, with costs rising and community benefits expected.
Falkirk: Exciting news about the new town hall! After five years of planning, things are finally moving forward. The project is expected to draw in over 300,000 visitors each year, which is pretty impressive.
However, the costs have gone up since the initial agreement. The latest report shows the new venue will cost nearly £70 million to build. But it’s projected to bring in about £3.38 million annually to the local economy, so it could be worth it.
The new town hall will be built where the old Callendar Square shopping center used to be. It’ll feature a 550-seat theater for all sorts of performances, from big-name shows to local talent. Sounds like a great spot for entertainment!
There’s also going to be an auditorium for council meetings, which can double as a rehearsal space for smaller events. Plus, they’re adding a library, a café, and a support hub for Falkirk Council. It’s all about creating a vibrant community space.
The goal is to make this place lively, not just during the day but also at night, with performances, restaurants, and bars. It’s all about bringing people together and making Falkirk a fun place to be.
Back in 2019, the council decided to replace the old town hall, but it took a while to settle on a location. They set aside £45 million for the project, which is part of a larger £110 million government funding plan.
Since last year, they’ve been busy tearing down the old shopping center and hotel. But, of course, construction costs have shot up, leading to a funding shortfall of about £16 million. They’re looking at ways to cover that gap.
The new estimated cost includes extra funds for inflation and improvements to the public areas outside. The council is considering using service concessions to help make up the difference.
They really hope this new venue will be a key part of the town center’s revitalization plan, attracting both locals and visitors. The report emphasizes how important this project is for the local economy.
Malcolm Bennie from Falkirk Council highlighted that the new town hall could significantly boost foot traffic in the area, which is great for local businesses. It’s all about creating a space for culture and community.
While the original plan included office space for 300 staff, the pandemic changed things. Many people are still working from home, so they’ve adjusted their plans accordingly.
Running costs are expected to be around £1.5 million a year, but they’re working on ways to reduce those costs and increase income. It’s a balancing act, but they’re optimistic.
Malcolm also mentioned that the venue will host a variety of events, from theater to community activities, making it a hub for everyone. They’re eager to engage with the public and local businesses to ensure the final design meets everyone’s needs.
Falkirk Council has shared some early design images, but they stress that it’s still in the conceptual stage. They’re planning a public consultation to gather feedback from residents and businesses on what they want to see in the new venue.
Mark your calendars! The council’s executive meeting is on January 23 at 10 am, and you can catch it live on their YouTube channel. It’s an exciting time for Falkirk!
