A vital hub supporting communities across the Glenkens has officially reopened its doors following a major renovation designed to cut carbon emissions and futureproof the building for generations to come.
Glenkens Community Centre, which is owned by Dalry Community Properties Trust, has undergone a major low-carbon retrofit, supported by a £133,000 grant from our Transmission Net Zero Fund along with funding provided by South of Scotland Enterprise.
The ambitious project, carried out by local tradespeople, has significantly reduced the building's carbon footprint and energy costs, while enhancing its role as an inclusive space for rural community life.
The renovation includes new insulation in the walls and roof, energy-efficient glazing, and low-energy lighting throughout. Solar PV panels and an air source heat pump now allow the centre to generate its own clean electricity and heat.
These upgrades have created a warmer, more comfortable, and environmentally friendly environment for the many people who use the centre, from social groups and wellbeing classes to youth clubs, workshops, and other community-led initiatives.
Originally built as a school in the late 19th century, the building became a community centre in the late 1970s. For nearly five decades it has helped combat social isolation and supported lifelong learning across the region.
Now, thanks to the retrofit, the centre is better equipped to support a diverse range of users all year round, including older residents, young families, and people with health conditions.
Jillian Violaris, Funding and Partnerships Manager at SP Energy Networks, said: "This project is a fantastic example of how sustainable investment can strengthen rural communities. By helping Glenkens Community Centre reduce its running costs and environmental impact, we're helping ensure it remains an accessible, welcoming and resilient place for everyone - today and in the future."
We are committed to supporting communities across Dumfries, having previously part-funded the installation of solar PV panels at Glenkens Community and Arts Trust.
Sarah McCusker, Trustee and Project Manager at Glenkens Community Centre, said: "We're absolutely thrilled to welcome everyone back into the newly refurbished centre. These improvements mean we can offer a warmer, more energy-efficient space for all members of our community. This building has always been a place where people come together, and thanks to the support from SP Energy Networks, that will continue for years to come."
To mark the successful completion of works, local MSP Finlay Carson visited the centre to meet staff, trustees, and members of the community.
Speaking about the positive impact already realised via the project, Mr Carson added: "This project is a model for how community spaces can lead the way on sustainability while delivering real, everyday benefits to local people. It's great to see such a well-loved building transformed in a way that respects its legacy while preparing it for the future. The centre is more than just a building - it's a cornerstone of community life."
A host of charities and organisations supporting communities across Scotland havebeen awarded funding from our Transmission Net Zero Fund to introduce innovative net zero technology. The groups have received grants to help them decarbonise and reach theit net zero targets sooner, with projects ranging from installation of heat pumps and renewable energy solutions to the purchase of electric vehicles and retrofitting listed buildings to increase energy efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Read more about the fund here: SP Energy Networks Transmission Net Zero Fund