Renfrew sparkles on historic day
Published 3 Feb 2012 09:30
THOUSANDS of proud Renfrew townsfolk turned out on Saturday to celebrate the reopening of the £5.2million refurbished town hall.
The landmark event was marked by a spectacular two hour concert, featuring a host of community groups, politicians and even X Factor star Gamu Nhengu who added some celebrity sparkle.
The overhaul of the iconic 19th century building has captured the imagination of the town, and the size of the crowd reflected the pride shown in it by the Renfrew public.
Alongside an extensive and meticulous indoor and outdoor restoration - funded by the council with support from Renfrew Common Good Fund, Historic Scotland, the Heritage Lottery Fund and Braehead Shopping Centre- a new state-of-the-art museum documenting Renfrew's rich history has also been included to help preserve the town's heritage.
Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon was among the special guests for the ribbon cutting ceremony, joining Renfrew-based MSP and former council leader Derek Mackay and Provost Celia Lawson.
The Renfrew Burgh Band earlier kicked off proceedings, before performances from The Singing Kettle and Gamu.
Then the day was rounded off with a jaw-dropping fireworks finale from the roof of the town hall. Provost Celia Lawson told the Gazette: "Everyone involved with the £5.2m modernisation aimed to reflect how much the town hall means to the people of Renfrew.
"That was clearly demonstrated at the opening event where the community got behind the event and we had a big turnout of people enjoying a landmark occasion.
"I'd like to thank everyone who supported the project and everyone whose involvement made the day so memorable."
After the event there was the first chance for members of the public to see inside the building, with over 150 people taking the opportunity for a first look at the stunning facilities.
Councillor Eileen McCartin, Convener of Renfrewshire Council's Community and Family Care Policy Board, added: "The modernisation of the town hall has preserved its heritage and also given Renfrew a top quality facility.
"As more people get the chance to come and visit, I'm sure we'll get as positive a reaction as people expressed on the day.
"It's like having a new building inside the traditional exterior. The new museum is also an exceptional feature which does full justice to Renfrew's proud past.
"Overall, the modernisation programme is another boost for the regeneration of Renfrew town centre."
This article appeared in The Gazette 03 Feb 12
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