Sign up to support Castlebank centreBig Lottery bid

The derelict sawmill building could be converted into a classroom and kitchen

As reported previously, Lanark Community Development Trust, which has already created the horticulture centre there, needs £500,000 from the Big Lottery Fund to turn the derelict sawmill into a classroom for horticultural courses, with a kitchen and office space. The building could also act as a hub for local groups.

“We are trying to do one last push to prove to the Lottery that the people of Lanark are right behind the project,” said Trust chairman Sylvia Russell.

“We have launched a petition and we are asking as many people as possible to sign it.”

Lanark Horticultural Centre Opening, with
Sylvia Russell, in May last year — Lanark Horticultural Centre Opening, with Sylvia Russell, in May last year

The petition can be found online at the Trust’s website www.lanarktrust.co.uk, and there will also be paper versions available at the library and the horticulture centre.

Signing takes just 30 seconds, and could make all the difference to this latest project. The petition has to be completed by August 5, and the Trust will find out in September if the bid has been successful.