The aim of this weekend's public consultation is to see what facilities people want to replace the community hall which was destroyed in last October's blaze.

The Kirkie in St.Combs is the venue for the event on Saturday from 2-4pm then again from 6-8pm.

Under the banner '2010 - A new decade - A new beginning!', the St Combs Playing Fields and Community Hall Association is hosting the event, which it sees as a vital step in having a new hall erected in the village.

"The night of 24th October, 2009, was to have a devastating effect on the village and one that many people won't forget," said a spokesperson.
"Our local hall was well used and held fond memories for many people. Hopefully, a new hall can be built to once again serve the village of St Combs and the surrounding community."

The hall and gala committee has, over the last couple of months, been working hard to attempt to secure funding which, together with funds already in place, can progress the new hall project.



"This will not happen overnight nor over the coming weeks, but hopefully over the coming months we can put in place the planning structure required to make this vision come to life," added the spokesperson.

The committee is hoping for a large turnout as it want as much feedback as possible.

"This is an informal open day for everyone to come along, enjoy some refreshments, have a look at the ideas which have already been sketched and make suggestions for the new hall. We need people's input.

"Committee members will be on hand to try and answer as many of your questions as possible along with members of the Buchan Development Partnership who can advise on our funding strategy and possible timescales.

"Draft plans have been created and will be on show to enable people to comment and share their thoughts and ideas with us.

"A short questionnaire will be provided and we would ask that this is completed in order that we know exactly what local people want in their new hall."
Issues which reqquire to be addressed include:

The location of the new hall. Should the position of the hall be changed?
The design of the hall? Both the internal layout and the external design.
Renewable energy - do you have ideas on this?
The facilities within the hall? What do we need? Take into account what the hall will actually be used for.

"These are all questions that need to be answered before we can move forward," explained the spokesperson.

"Should you wish to comment on the new hall but will be unable to make the public consultation, please do not hesitate to contact any committee member who can arrange for a questionnaire to be delivered to you."

North Rattray and Peterhead councillor Anne Allan praised the community for it's determination, saying: "Having attended the previous public meeting just after the fire, I would say that I am delighted that things seem to be moving forward, and hope that a new community hall can be up and running as quickly as possible."