Stables conversion is heavily backed
ABANDONED buildings could enjoy a new lease of life as an international-class conference, business and concert centre.
The possibility of the 18th century stables and factor's house in Callendar Park being transformed into a 21st century architectural dream has been raised by the local tenants and residents association and has the support of Provost Pat Reid.
Falkirk's civic leader has agreed to host a fact-finding meeting to look at the exciting proposals in greater detail.
He intends to invite groups involved in a similar project in Glasgow to have an input into a feasibility study.
Historic Scotland, Scottish Enterprise, the European Union Development Fund and the Heritage Lottery Fund could all be brought on board to help fund the project.
The provost said: "I welcome the call from the Callendar Park Tenants and Residents Association which coincides with other recent approaches from both within and without the council.
''There have been attempts in the past to get something off the ground but those have not translated into action mainly due to lack of funds.
"Along with the other Falkirk North members and in consultation with the association , I intend to call a public meeting after the council recess to explore the ways in which progress can best be made.
''To this end, I have invited representatives of the Cassiltoun Trust to attend the meeting. This trust arranged for a similar stable block in Castlemilk to be converted into a building which retained its historical look but which now accommodates a multi-purpose community building.
"The stables and the former factor's house in Callendar Park require to be brought up to a standard reflective of the rest of the estate. This is especially true now that we expect an increase in tourist interest following the designation of the Antonine Wall as a World Heritage Site.
''Falkirk now has another opportunity to be bold and enhance our reputation as a forward looking community – ever conscious of the need to progress in economic and cultural terms."
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Weather for Falkirk
Thursday 24 May 2012
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Temperature: 14 C to 24 C
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