Creating a community hub at The Links by securing and transforming an unused building into an inclusive space for local people, families, young people and visitors.
Estimated Cost
£150,000
1. What do you want to do?
Tain Gala Association intends to secure a lease or formal agreement to use the existing building at The Links Recreation Area and transform it into a year‑round Community Hub – a place for all. The building has been unused for many years and requires essential enabling works before it can safely support any community activity. Funding will allow us to:
Secure the building for community use through lease or formal agreement
Reinstating a safe power supply
Repair the collapsed drainage system
Make the building wind‑ and watertight
Refurbish and repurpose the interior into a flexible, accessible community space
Install modern accessible public toilets and baby‑changing facilities
Provide a drinking water refill point
Improve outdoor seating overlooking the boating pond
Create a welcoming social space for families, young people, older residents and visitors
Provide community and visitor information about local walks, wildlife and nature
Support youth activities, environmental learning, volunteering and community wellbeing
This project will bring a long‑unused building back into community use and create a safe, inclusive space for local people.
2. Why is your project important for your community? (Place Plan alignment)
The Tain & Easter Ross Place Plan identifies the need for improved community facilities, better public amenities at The Links, more youth provision, and enhanced outdoor spaces that support wellbeing. The Links Hub directly addresses these priorities by:
Providing a community‑led indoor space at a well‑used recreation area
Offering accessible public toilets, which are currently lacking
Supporting youth engagement and reducing anti‑social behaviour through positive activity
Creating a base for environmental learning, nature connection and outdoor programmes
Enhancing visitor infrastructure at a key local destination
Strengthening community resilience through volunteering, events and shared activity
Improving social connection for families, older residents and young adults with ASN
The project transforms an unused asset into a community‑owned space that meets multiple Place Plan outcomes.
3. What positive impact will your project have? (Expected outcomes)
The Links Hub will deliver:
A safe, inclusive indoor space for community groups, families and young people
Improved wellbeing through social connection, nature‑based activities and accessible facilities
Increased youth engagement and reduced anti‑social behaviour
Better visitor experience at The Links through toilets, seating and information
More opportunities for volunteering, leadership and community participation
A permanent base for Tain Gala Association to coordinate Gala Week, heritage displays and community events
A revitalised public space that encourages outdoor activity, environmental awareness and community pride
4. What key milestones have you achieved so far and what are your next steps?
Milestones achieved:
Community engagement and support evidenced
Initial project concept developed
Building condition reviewed
Quotes obtained for enabling works (power reinstatement and drainage repair)
Early discussions held regarding future lease arrangements
Funding applications prepared
Next steps:
Secure lease or formal agreement for community use
Complete enabling works (power, drainage, safety repairs)
Begin refurbishment and installation of accessible facilities
Develop programme of community, youth and environmental activities
Launch The Links Hub as a year‑round community space
5. Anticipated start and end date
Start: As soon as lease or formal permissions are confirmed End: Within 12 months of funding award, with phased opening as works progress
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