The estimated cost of repairing a North-East hall has spiraled to £800,000 – prompting fears for the building’s future.
A confidential report to Moray councilors has revealed the extent of work required at Fochabers Institute.
Repair estimates for a crumbling Moray community hall have quadrupled to £800,000 – prompting fresh fears for the future of the 100-year-old landmark.
A confidential report to a meeting of Moray councilors next week has revealed the extent of upgrade work required to bring the Fochabers Institute back to a “satisfactory” condition.
The draft document also details projected replacement costs for the building, which could reach £1.3million.
Members of the local authority’s policy and resources committee will be told on Tuesday that the next stage of the process will be to consult with the public on options for the future of the council-owned site.
According to the report, these include the closure and “disposal” of the hall, partial replacement or transfer of ownership to the community.
Frances Duncan, chairwoman of the Fochabers Institute Management Committee, said last night she was surprised the costs had increased to such an extent. Earlier estimates had placed the cost of repairs at about £200,000.
She said: “Once we have the public consultation, we will have to make a decision, but hopefully we will get public support.
“The community will not want the hall to be lost, I think they would rally round and give us the support we need to keep it going.”
Among the “essential” repairs needed to bring the hall up to standard as part of the projected £800,000 upgrade are replacement of windows and doors and a complete overhaul of the interior of the building.
The report also suggests there is a “significant” risk work would uncover further underlying problems such as dry rot – and the refurbishment option is not considered the best way forward.
Councillors are expected to discuss the matter in private session at Tuesday’s meeting.
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