Campaigners trying to save a historic Dunfermline building will take to the streets this Saturday.
As the Friends of Pilmuir Works continue to press ahead with ambitious plans to turn the derelict Duracord factory into a community hub, the next stage in its development have been revealed.
The group is trying to revitalise the former linen mill which is in a derelict state after lying empty for years.
Dunfermline’s first power loom linen factory opened in 1849 and was the first of 11 huge damask weaving mills scattered over the town.
Sadly it closed its doors in 2006 and has empty ever since.
Frustrated by a lack of progress, the Friends of Pilmuir Works has come together.
The Friends were overwhelmed by the public response to its inaugural meeting at the end of last year.
There was standing room only at the event to gauge the local reaction to a community buy-out of the decaying factory.
While realising there was a long way to go, everyone was excited by the turnout, and the feedback and suggestions from the people who attended.
Now its first meeting of the new year has built on the opening evening’s success, where scores of ideas flooded in.
It has been agreed that due to the enormity of the project ahead, four smaller groups should be formed to look at different aspects of the project.
They will look at funding opportunities, the feasibility of plans, sustainability, creating a business plan and communications.
Members of the group were able to gain access to the building to examine the state of the dereliction inside.
While the overall condition was extremely poor due to roof damage, weather conditions, broken windows, pigeon droppings and general decay, the group is confident that with expertise, advice and funding a viable community hub for the people of Dunfermline and visitors to the historic town is possible.
On Saturday January 28 members of the petitions group will be out canvassing support from the public.
They will have a street stall from 12 noon to 3pm in Dunfermline High Street, outside the former McDonald’s, where they are hoping to gather as many signatures as possible to support the Friends of Pilmuir Works’ cause.