SAVE THE OLD MILL
We in the little village of Balmacara intend to restore The Old Mill Hall
to its former glory: here is why we hope you will help us.
WHO WE ARE
Our Roots
For years this old hall was the hub of the community where many social gatherings were held, including children's parties, anniversaries, meetings of various groups and the many dances and general get-togethers that were held here over the years.
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On many occasions, the hall would ring with music and laughter as folks from near and far came to enjoy the many dances held there.
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We can look back fondly, and it's great to reminisce, but we must look forward as we anticipate those 'good ol' days returning to our little village.
OUR VISION
The Focus of Our Efforts
To help us achieve our vision, we are working with MAAC Studio, who are conservation architects specialising in restoring traditional and historic buildings in the Highlands and the Impact Hub in Inverness, in exploring options for breathing new life into our Old Mill Hall for the local community.
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Working with traditional buildings requires an approach different from that of modern buildings. MAAC Studio’s skill and expertise in traditional materials will guide the transformation of this 200-year-old building and ensure that it can serve the community for another 200 years.
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Click on the images below to find out more about our partners:
The image below is our architect's impression of the proposed main hall.
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It would be a delight to enjoy this wonderful space for the many gatherings held here after the building work is completed. With little imagination, one can easily envisage all activities: dances, drawing classes, playgroups for kids, and rehearsal space for choral groups and bands.
Most of all, it would be a great space where community fellowship may flourish.
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But there is more...
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We plan to have other facilities available in the hall, i.e. WC on each floor and a kitchenette. Furthermore, we want to place a community bar in the upper hall where locals and others can enjoy a relaxing hour or two.
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We have an excellent vision for the hall and encourage others near and far to join us and be part of this journey. Please join us in that vision in whatever way you can.
THE MILL NOW
The Old Mill currently looks like this
DONATE
Please help us by donating now or head over to our brand new e-shop
For many years the Old Mill Hall in Balmacara Square has been a crucial part of our community life. It has housed many social gatherings, bringing the community and families together. Unfortunately, it has been in disrepair for a long time now and previous attempts to save the Hall have all struggled.
We now have a newly energized and motivated community group that wants to bring the Old Mill Hall back to life and draw the community together as it once was. COVID has shown us how important our community really is. We are fundraising to assist with the refurbishment of the hall so that it can be the heart of the community again for generations to come.
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Significant work has already taken place, but more is needed and we are kindly asking for your support to help us save this valuable community owned asset.
Thank you all for your consideration and support. We look forward to a wee ceilidh in Balmacara again soon.
Dates for the Diary
