Spectacular: Gala will conclude with fireworks display Pic: © STV
Residents of Renfrew are celebrating the reopening of their town hall after a £5.2m facelift.
X Factor star Gamu Nhengu and Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon will join members of the public and local dignitaries for the event on Saturday afternoon.
The festivities mark the unveiling of the revamped Renfrew Town Hall and the opening of a new adjoining community museum. The gala day begins at 2.30pm and is set to feature a parade, funfair rides, musical performances, and children’s entertainment, before the official opening ceremony and a fireworks display at 4.30pm.
Councillor Bill Perrie, Convener of Renfrew and Gallowhill Local Area Committee, said: “There’s something for everyone with top performers and community involvement throughout the day. Renfrew Town Hall is at the heart of the town and its history. The event has been designed with the community at its heart, with a parade featuring local schools and musicians and a performance from the Renfrew Burgh Band.”
Ms Sturgeon added: "This project has taken a lot of work and dedication and this event is a chance to celebrate that achievement. I hope as many people as possible take part in – and enjoy – the fantastic day of celebration that has been planned."
Renfrewshire's provost Celia Lawson and Local Government Minister Derek Mackay will also be present at the event.
The modernisation programme was led by Renfrewshire Council with support from Renfrew Common Good Fund, Historic Scotland, the Heritage Lottery Fund, and Braehead Shopping Centre.
Colin McLean, head of the Heritage Lottery Fund in Scotland, said: "This beautiful and much-loved building has been at the heart of Renfrew for generations, a symbol of the town's history and identity. We are delighted to see it take its place, once again, at the centre of community life with modern spaces and a museum celebrating the rich heritage of the area.
“Renfrewshire is a development priority area for the Heritage Lottery Fund and we are working hard with lots of local people to make the most of the grants available to them. The unique heritage of the area has the potential to unlock funding to record and preserve it, providing opportunities for education, training and volunteering. We want to help to make that happen."
Road closures are in place for the gala, with High Street shut from Hairst Street to Queen Street from 9am until after the event. Hairst Street will be shut from Glebe Street to High Street between 4 and 5pm to allow the fireworks display to take place.
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