Bright future ahead for Kilmardinny

Work has officially started to transform Kilmardinny House into a conference, wedding and arts centre.

The £2.73m project is being delivered in Bearsden by East Dunbartonshire Council in conjunction with East Dunbartonshire Leisure and Culture (EDLC) Trust, development partner hub West Scotland and contractor Clark Contracts.

Construction work is expected to be completed in late December 2016, with work then taking place internally. The facility is due to open to the public in spring 2017.

The project includes the creation of a new garden pavilion extension, which will provide a modern, flexible space and enhance the venue as a centre for local arts, performance and community groups.

It will also create a modern, flexible space that can be used for a range of activities including performances, exhibitions, conferences and weddings.

The existing popular Category A-listed House will be partially refurbished, both inside and out, including redecoration and some repairs to external stonework and windows.

Councillor Alan Moir, Convener of the Council’s Development and Regeneration Committee, said, “I strongly welcome this significant investment in one of East Dunbartonshire’s most historic buildings – ensuring Kilmardinny is fit for the 21st century and ready to cater for a range of uses for years to come.

“This is great news for Bearsden, and East Dunbartonshire as a whole – providing investment in one of our key local assets.

“Kilmardinny House is a well-established and much-loved local institution that is well used by many groups and organisations.”

Councillor Anne Jarvis, Chair of EDLC Trust added: “I am delighted to welcome the start of works at Kilmardinny House. These exciting plans will breathe new life into the facility – with major repairs planned for the existing house and a new garden pavilion extension on the way.

“Crucially, the project will allow us to continue supporting the diverse range of arts, culture and leisure services the house is renowned for, while making it even more popular as a venue for events, weddings and conferences. “It has a special place in people’s hearts and I am sure this development project will mean that remains the case for many years to come.” A number of meetings took place with users of Kilmardinny House, as well as the general public, to help shape designs.

Angeline Robertson, Partnerships Director at hub West Scotland commented: “Kilmardinny House is an important project for the community. Enhancing one of Bearsden’s most loved buildings into a multi-use venue will benefit more people. We are proud of our ongoing relationship with our partners East Dunbartonshire Council delivering more facilities for the local community.”

David Cooper, Director, Clark Contracts said “It’s fantastic to be working on such a historic project, so important to the local community. The refurbishment works will enhance the Category A-listed building’s features and, along with the extension, will provide attractive, modern new facilities fit for purpose for many years to come.”