Published on:
16
March 2012
A £2.9 million project to create a modern library in one of the area's most historic landmarks has been given the green light.
The approved plans, which were passed yesterday (Thursday) by the Council's Planning Committee will ensure a positive future for the Speirs Centre.
It will also make the building, which is of historical importance to the area, more easily accessible to meet the needs of the wider community.
The project will also see the restoration of the buildings historic fabric and features and contribute to the regeneration of Alloa Town Centre. It will see it converted into a modern library facility, with a new ramped access, main entrance and lifts.
Garry Dallas, Director of Services and Communities said: "These plans will maximise the use of an important but underused building by adapting the listed building in a manner which is sympathetic to its character and appearance while enhancing the Town Centre as a whole.
"The refurbishment of the existing rooms on the ground and first floors will be available for a range of community uses and functions."
Historic Scotland was consulted, as the Speirs Centre is a Category 'A' listed building. They consider that the Council's scheme respects the historic building and combines it with an innovative and exciting re-use for the wider benefit of the town.
Mr Dallas added: "The comments from Historic Scotland reinforce the merits of the proposed design to sensitively adapt, alter and restore this wonderful building within Alloa Town Centre. Consequently, the scheme has been awarded grant assistance by Historic Scotland."
The building will also accommodate the Registrar, a local family history centre and a visitor information point.
The approved application for the alterations to the Speirs Centre will now be submitted to Scottish Ministers for Listed Building Consent, as the works are being carried out on a listed building, and the council are the applicant.