Latest role for Legion building

Latest role for Legion building

23 October 2013

PLANS have been unveiled to redevelop the former Royal British Legion building in Killyleagh to provide a major community facility which will include a new library.

The town’s Development Association is spearheading the ambitious plan for the Catherine Street building — known as Sproule House — which closed some time ago.

The Association has purchased the premises and is currently drawing up a business plan to ensure its viability, while ensuring a range of services to help the town.

The community group has also confirmed that its negotiations with the South Eastern Education and Library Board to ensure the upper floor of the building becomes the new base for town’s library are at an advanced stage.

As part of the proposed redevelopment project, the three-storey building will also house new premises for a youth -in centre for the young people of the town.

Association secretary, Dr. Eddie Rea, said the group has been working quietly in the background since 1990 and that since then it has taken over a number of run-down and hard-to-let properties in the town, before redeveloping them and bringing them back into public use. He said attention is now firmly focussed on Sproule House.

Describing the proposals for the former British Legion building as “very exciting,” Dr. Rea said he is particularly delighted with the plan for a new library, especially as at one stage it was threatened with closure over the long-term suitability of its current High Street premises.

“We are working on the redevelopment of Sproule House, bringing it into long term use as a community-owned and managed building with future long-term sustainability,” continued Dr. Rea. “It is our aim to have the building back in full use as early next year as is possible.’’

Dr. Rea suggested the possible activities for Sproule House are “as wide as any creative business or community leader can envisage.”

He added: “We are seeking all interested parties to get in touch with us as soon as possible to discuss their ideas which naturally will be in confidence.

“The Association can also offer professional help and support if necessary.’’

Association chairperson, Leontine Haines, explained the group is seeking proposals from business owners/entrepreneurs to develop the middle floor of Sproule House and large walled garden at the rear of the building.

“If someone has a plan for a start-up unit for a new business or wants to rent accommodation for new community activities, then we want to hear from them,” she said.

“The Association believes this part of the building is suitable for a number of uses, subject to planning, including a restaurant/cafe, a community-based business, day care nursery or a tourism base for walking tours or bicycle hire. It could also be used to house a craft business, garden centre or a dental practice.”