Why save the Burgh Hall?

The Trust and its partners believe that a deliverable and ambitious strategy can ultimately revive the building as a cultural centre – not just for the town, but for the wider region.

The Burgh Hall is set to become a thriving centre for arts-led community activities. On the basis of recent research commissioned by SBPT, this view is supported by the town. It is also clear that the development will not only add to the cultural life of Dunoon, it will prompt new social and commercial activities in the process.

The findings show, quite decisively, that a purely commercial re-use of the Hall is not desired by townspeople. The majority of respondents to a recent survey from SBPT has indicated preferences for ‘theatre performances and rehearsal space', 'facilities for local clubs and groups to meet' and 'an arts performance space'. A part-commercial use of the Hall to support such activities is also supported, such as a café and bookshop.

As owners of the building, the Trust has welcomed this research and has incorporated its findings in the project.