ONE year on from taking on the Loreburn Hall, Sandy Sweetman and Simon Robertson have been reflecting on the highs and lows on their journey so far.
Both men were full of enthusiasm and excitement about the potential of the venue, but more than anything they wanted the community to get behind their venture and for it to become a cultural hub in the centre of Dumfries.
They wanted to reignite the energy and the community spirit that people associate with the Loreburn Hall, and they have not been disappointed as Sandy said: “While there has been a delay in formally transferring the lease to us, we are committed to Loreburn Hall for the long-term and we are grateful for our partnership with Dumfries and Galloway Council and for those working with us to progress this.
“In many ways this past year has given us a greater insight into how people want to use the building and what we need to do to facilitate this. We also feel confident that our community-led approach is the best strategy for the development of Loreburn Hall. “
Since April 2024 the hall has hosted over 60 events, including everything from live DJs to boxing competitions, music gigs, craft fayres, tabletop sales, and most recently Scotland’s Weekend of Strength.
New partnerships have also been formed with organisations wanting to relocate their clubs and organisation to the hall. Nithvalley Amateur Boxing Club has already moved into the Lesser Hall, and more recently the Dumfries and Galloway Arts Festival team have relocated to the hall and are excited about being part of its future with other organisations due to make the move later in the spring.
Although there have been challenges along the way, the team behind Loreburn Hall are positive about what has been achieved this year and they remain fully committed and optimistic about the future.
Sandy added: “Due to the community coming on board, the range and quality of events has been amazing this year and we are already starting to see more promoters from out with the area being drawn to Dumfries and Galloway to host their events at Loreburn Hall, which is great for us, audiences and for the local economy.
“We are also experiencing an increase in demand from local organisations wanting to rent out spaces within the building, as well as from those who want to run regular activities and events in the hall. “It’s fair to say that our cultural hub is well and truly off to a great start, but we will continue to listen and to learn as we go. With more time, investment and collaboration we know there is so much more potential, so we are excited to see what can be achieved in the year ahead and in the longer-term too.
“Our thanks to everyone who has supported us this past year and to all those who are making plans to join us in 2025 and beyond.”
