A GROUP which plans to renovate a local pub and turn it into a new community hub is celebrating a £700,000 Lottery win. People United for Banton (PUB) is one of 24 organisations that will share a £5.7 million pot of Big Lottery Fund cash.
It intends to redevelop the Swan Inn in Banton, North Lanarkshire, to increase the services available in the community, tackle isolation and loneliness particularly among older people, and boost economic development.
Secretary Catherine Moneypenny said: “Almost two years ago the people of Banton feared losing our only pub, one of our last amenities. Now we are buying it.
“Thanks to the Big Lottery Fund we are set to transform it into the community hub we all want and need. In its new incarnation the Swan Inn will house a gorgeous cafe, restaurant, and shop as well as a traditional pub.”
Other groups receiving cash include Kilmarnock Station Railway Heritage Trust which has been awarded £148,487 to create a wellbeing hub north of Kilmarnock town centre. It will involve refurbishing the Old Man’s Cabin, which was acquired from the local council through a community asset transfer, and turning it into a welcoming space for the local community.
Trustee Allan Brown said: “This will make a real difference to the people of Kilmarnock who are experiencing difficulties relating to a variety of issues including mental and physical health. We will now be able to provide healthy lifestyle activities on a regular basis to members of the local community including counselling, therapy, meditation and acupuncture.”
Meanwhile, Rutherglen-based community radio station CamGlen Radio received an award of £148,907.
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