27 June 2019

Extension of pioneering community facility one step closer

Plans for the extension of a well-loved community centre in Central Buchan took a step forward this week. Mintlaw and Central Buchan Initiative (MaCBi), which was designed and is continuing to be led by a committee of local volunteers, is located next to Mintlaw Academy and is so popular it has been stretched to its limits with new users.

It includes soft play and outdoor play areas, a sports hall, fitness room and meeting rooms as well as a lounge and café. This week, Aberdeenshire Council’s Buchan Area Committee agreed to contribute a funding guarantee to complete the financial package for the extension works, alongside other funding streams.

The extension will enable the centre to take on and extend library facilities in the fast-growing town and will also provide additional meeting and soft play facilities, as well as a brand new early years care facility.

Vice Chair of Buchan Area Committee, Cllr Dianne Beagrie commented: “What has been achieved at MaCBi since its opening is remarkable and I am sure further investment will really help to take what’s on offer to the next level.

“This commercial and self-sustaining model developed by volunteers is a real community success story. New users, new uses and new clubs have all come forward in support of the extension and we hope that this project will continue to grow for the benefit of the Central Buchan community.”

There is still some work to be done to bring all funding streams together and it is hoped plans can be put together soon to let the local community know what they can look forward to.