Lending a hand to centre's regeneration
Kirsty Gibbins • Published 16 Feb 2012 09:20
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Jonny Russell (left) with Mansell joiners Andrew Close and Hugh Arbuckle
A CONSTRUCTION firm provided a helping hand to the ongoing transformation of Tranent's Fraser Centre this week by providing the project with enough manpower to complete the facility's new kitchen free-of-charge.
Formerly a cinema, then a warehouse and latterly a Christian centre before falling into a state of disrepair, the Fraser Centre Regeneration Project, launched in October, aims to breathe new life into Winton Place property.
The aim is to create a new learning development, arts and entertainment facility open to the whole community, encompassing IT classes, first-aid training, dance classes, a theatre, a cinema and conference and meeting space.
A trio of joiners from construction firm Mansell arrived at the centre on Monday and began a week of work to install a new kitchen at the property, which is currently undergoing phase one of the refurbishment.
Tranent man Jonny Russell, whose father, the Rev Richard Russell, is the minister of the Fraser Christian Centre which has been based in the building for the past 25 years, is the driving force behind the project.
Having set up the centre's Community Trust Fund, Jonny has also secured a long-term lease from the church, the owners of the centre, and will be setting up a committee to manage the building once it opens on June 9, following the completion of phase one.
Jonny said: "Only a few years ago there was talk of having to sell off the building due to costs. However, the community rallied in terms of providing a whole host of ideas on what they want the centre to be used for.
"Our overall aim is to create a state-of-the-art venue where the ideas that drive it continue to come from the people who use it, as this will ensure its longevity."
The donation of labour is Mansell's second undertaking in Fa'side within the last year, as the company completed the construction of the new Ormiston Community Centre in November. Mansell is part of the Balfour Beatty Group.
Callum Leslie, regional director in central Scotland for Mansell, said: "When we were approached by The Fraser Centre Regeneration Project we were only too happy to help by providing some manpower to install the new kitchen.
"The completion of the kitchen is another important step in phase one of the build programme. Along with several of the rooms within the centre also nearing completion it will soon be fit for purpose and open for business."
Jonny added: "We are so appreciative of the support Mansell has been able to provide.
"The project has benefited from the goodwill of so many, whether it's lending staff to help with the build programme, suggesting activities for the centre's future use or how best to make sure the building is energy efficient.
"This gives people a feeling of ownership in the project as well as a sense of achievement once it is completed."
Anyone wishing to donate, volunteer or find out more about the project can email Jonny at community.trust@thefraser centre.co.uk
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