Vandalised Falkirk sports centre could re-open under community bid

Falkirk Sports Centre Vandalised, Could Reopen Under Community Ownership

The Hallglen Centre, a sports centre in Falkirk that has been closed for five years, may have a chance at revival through a community bid if Falkirk Council approves the proposal. Once a bustling hub for activities like judo, gymnastics, and cheerleading, the centre was abruptly shut down in 2019 due to heating failure. Since then, it has fallen into disrepair and become a target for vandalism.

The council’s executive committee is set to review a community asset transfer request from Hallglen Hub, a group aiming to breathe new life into the abandoned building. The proposal entails acquiring the centre for £10,000 and seeking funding of around £1.3 million from sources like the Scottish Land Fund. The group, registered as a Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation (SCIO), highlights strong community backing for the centre’s reopening based on a consultation that revealed widespread support for its revival.

The Hallglen Centre, located in an area among the most deprived in Scotland, is seen as a crucial facility by the group, offering a much-needed space for various activities catering to the entire community. Plans for the centre include fitness facilities, social spaces, youth programs, and a community café, all aimed at fostering inclusivity regardless of age, ability, or background.

The restoration project also aims to provide opportunities for young volunteers to gain qualifications by assisting in running and maintaining the centre. While acknowledging the significant funding challenge ahead, the council report recognises the robust governance setup of Hallglen Hub and recommends giving the group the opportunity to realise their vision.

Alongside the Hallglen Centre, other Community Asset Transfer applications will be deliberated during the executive committee meeting. The meeting, scheduled for Thursday at 10 am in Grangemouth, will be live-streamed on Falkirk Council’s YouTube channel.

In their bid to revive the Hallglen Centre, Hallglen Hub’s ambitious plans align with the community’s desire to see the once vibrant sports centre back in action, serving as a cornerstone for activities, social interaction, and youth development in the area.

Insights:
The proposal for the community bid to re-open the vandalised Falkirk sports centre underlines the transformative power of community-led initiatives in rejuvenating neglected public spaces. The commitment of Hallglen Hub to restore the centre not only revitalises a vital community asset but also represents a beacon of hope for residents in an area facing socio-economic challenges. By fostering inclusivity and offering diverse activities, the revamped centre has the potential to not only address a gap in recreational facilities but also serve as a catalyst for social cohesion and empowerment within the neighbourhood.