Good evening,
I can’t believe it is Friday evening already!!! What a week it has been.
There have been many conversations and emails received since Monday all voicing shock, concern and worry for the future of Our Drill Hall.
We have also received messages of support: Peebles Community Council have compiled a report in response to the consultation and the Elected Councillors met on Thursday to discuss the findings. Both Councillor Douglas and Pirone gave their support to the Drill Hall in this debate in Council Chambers.
From my research it has become clear that the data and figures used by the consultancy team were wholly inaccurate. If they had taken into account our income for this period (or even had the decency to ask us for it!) the deficit would have been more in the region of £5k….. Only £30k of a difference!!!!! I am sure for some this is pocket change but for most of us this figure is pretty significant.
And as I pointed out to Councillor Pirone on Wednesday Evening; based on the population of Peeblesshire this works out at around 50p per head per year to open the Drill Hall for our community 7 days per week between the hours of 7am-11pm. Pretty good value for money in my opinion.
However, regardless of the support offered, positive impact and value for money it is clear Live Borders WILL close buildings in an attempt to save money. And there is no doubt the many other centres and halls throughout the Scottish Borders also at risk have a similar story to tell.
Regular Hall Users or a representative on groups behalf, are invited to meet with the Drill Hall Office Bearers this Monday 28th April at 6:30pm to discuss next steps, possible options and solutions.
There is a further Public Meeting organised by SBC taking place in the Drill Hall on Friday 2nd May at 7pm. If you can’t make it on Monday I hope you can attend on Friday to make your voices heard. If we don’t take this opportunity to speak out they will presume no one cares or needs the Drill Hall and will have no reason to keep it open. I really hope you will join us.
Have a good weekend and remember the wonderful The Peebles Makers Market is on throughout the day this Sunday, head along and treat yourself.
Clare x
Also check out other Meetups in Peebles.
