The stage is set for a brand new theatre and community hub in Dalbeattie.
Work on converting the former St Peter’s Primary School into the Birchvale got under way this week.
Once completed the £450,000 complex will boast a 76-seat theatre and cinema with modern lighting, sound and dressing rooms.
Other features include a Green Room cafe/bar, theatre workshop, box office, meeting room and a venue for hire.
Birchvale chairperson Stephen Carruthers admitted getting the six-month project under way had been “a long road”.
He said: “First we had to build the business case that allowed Dumfries and Galloway Council to transfer the asset to us.
“Then we had to get a costed development plan and all the necessary permissions.
“And finally we had to put together the funding package to make it all happen.
“All the committee and our many supporters have played their part.
“For the members of The Birchvale Players it’s a momentous day.”
Mr Carruthers paid special thanks to secretary Dean McCormick and treasurer Alex McMillan for their “enormous effort” in pulling finance together.
He added: “We are planning an autumn programme and hopefully we will get some visiting groups.
“We are immensely grateful to the funding organisations who have had the vision to support us and our plans for the future.
“Principally this has been Dumfries and Galloway Council but there has also been significant support from others.
“It was a big dream and it’s now becoming a reality.”
Birchvale will be available to community groups and the Better Lives Partnership plans to use the Green Room as soon as it becomes available.
Main contractors D M Group are now on site for the six-month renovation.
Boss Paul Mitchell said: “This is a great project. We are delighted to be chosen to make it happen.
“It’s great to be involved in something that will bring fun and entertainment into the heart of the town.
“It’s going to be a great new space for the community,”
The complex will provide full
disabled access to the building and its facilities.
