A community hub has revealed a £130,000 funding shortfall in its major renovation project following soaring construction costs and the discovery of underground vaults.
Action Porty initially raised £900,000 to transform Bellfield’s Celebration Hall, but extensive unforeseen issues have forced organisers to scale back the original design.
Plans for a new mezzanine and lift were scrapped after builders encountered unexpected asbestos, essential rewiring requirements, and two subterranean vaults during floor excavation.
The board is now seeking further funding and volunteer support to complete the venue in time for its upcoming reopening.
AlasdairW, CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons
A new floor with underfloor heating has been installed throughout the ground floor, made possible by the removal of the original pews.
During the groundwork, archaeologists were brought in to examine and preserve the two underground vaults to ensure structural safety.
Additional upgrades to the building include a new toilet block, kitchen, meeting room, and storage facilities, alongside extensive drainage, lighting, and plumbing improvements.
An initial projected deficit of £190,000 has been reduced to £130,000 following local fundraising efforts, which included contributions from local swimmers, a pub, and a financial package from Business Energy Scotland.
Builders are currently completing the structural work, and volunteers are being sought to undertake decorating duties to minimise further expenses.
The board is pursuing two additional funding avenues and has appealed to the public for advice on bridging the remaining financial gap.
Despite the structural and financial setbacks, the venue is preparing to accept bookings for events, conferences, and weddings, with plans for a reopening celebration once building control checks are passed.
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