Plans for a new community hub in Coupar Angus have been unveiled after a former NHS building was taken over in June following three years of deliberations.
The Strathmore Community Hub will be based at the old health centre on Traders Lane in the heart of the Perthshire town and will be home to a new cafe, arts and crafts centres and a Men’s Shed.
The group behind the hub have now submitted a full planning application to Perth and Kinross Council after having them approved by both the board and the local community.
Keith Langelaan, vice-chairman of the Strathmore Community Hub, said it was an “ambitious” project for the town.
He said: “The plans are supported around the area and we’ve had a lot of enthusiasm.
“We’ve not had one dissenter. It has been greeted with open arms and as something that will be good for Coupar Angus.
“We’re hoping to have it completed by July next year but there’s a lot of things to be done.
“The Hub will combat social isolation and promote social inclusion”
The board invited Deputy First Minister John Swinney up to see the new plans for the community centre after the politician lent his support to the project.
Keith said: “John was one of the first people I spoke to about buying the building and he’s been very supportive over the last three years.”
Mr Swinney said he was “excited” to learn the details of the new hub and its plans for the future.
He said: “Whilst there is still a significant amount of work to be done, it is clear that the Hub has the potential to be a fantastic, inclusive facility for the local community.
“Accordingly, I was grateful for the opportunity to discuss potential sources of funding for the Hub, and to offer my support to any efforts to obtain this additional support.
“The progress made thus far is a tribute to the hard work and skill of the entire team behind the project, and I am sure that it will continue to prosper in the months and years ahead.”
Local SNP councillor Fiona Sarwar said the whole community should get behind the hub.
Councillor Sarwar said: “Learning of the exciting future plans for the Hub only reinforces the positive influence it will have on Coupar Angus and the surrounding areas.
