News Release

Study investigates potential uses for Stonehaven Town Hall

9th April 2007

Potential future uses for Stonehaven Town Hall have been revealed in a feasibility study commissioned by the Aberdeenshire Towns Partnership.

The study, undertaken by Jura Consultants, was commissioned by the partnership, consisting of Aberdeenshire Council, Scottish Enterprise Grampian and Scottish Homes, in May 1998.

The town hall was identified as a priority project because of its importance in the local community.

The feasibility study was undertaken in order to assess the full potential of the hall.

It aimed to investigate the future use of the hall under a short list of criteria: cost of option, market analysis, sustainability and fit with objectives.

It also assessed the conservation needs of the hall by looking at the building’s history and condition, and its importance to the area.

A range of potential uses were considered, a number of which were new and not traditionally offered by a town hall, such as its use as a hostel.

Following public consultation, a number of the options were ruled out due to a lack of public support and a desire to see the hall continue to perform its traditional role.

This consultation process included a public survey, the use of a focus group and consultations with key stakeholders and potential partners.

Following the consultation a short-list of options were drawn up.  The options were as follows:

• Do nothing
• Option one: Do the minimum
• Option two: Basic upgrade with Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) compliance for the ground floor, stage area and toilets
• Option three: Basic upgrade with fully accessible ground and first floors, gallery, stage and toilets
• Option four: Multi-purpose facility
• Option five: Multi-purpose facility and extension to the rear

After lengthy discussion, option four (multi-purpose facility), was chosen as the preferred option.

It was felt that this option would deliver a flexible space to accommodate the facilities and activities requested by those surveyed, and the project steering group.

It also offers the opportunity to deliver sustainable operation after three years of development and promotion.

The study forms part of the Development Strategy Framework for Stonehaven.

The full Feasibility Study is available as a pdf:

Stonehaven Town Hall - Feasibility Study (pdf 2.69 mb) 

For further information, contact Aberdeenshire Council’s Community Recreation Team Leader (South) Steve Welsh on (01569) 768229, or Kincardine and Mearns Area Manager William Munro on (01569) 768206.

Contact: Communications Assistant Tony Mayfield
Tel: (01224) 664611
Fax: (01224) 665204

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