Pavilions' transformations powered by teamwork
Two community pavilions in Midlothian have been fully refurbished, providing local people with modern, welcoming spaces to meet, socialise and take part in activities.
Team work
Birkenside Pavilion in Gorebridge and Pathhead Pavilion have both undergone major upgrades thanks to close collaboration between council officers, contractors and community partners.
Major undertaking
At Birkenside, the building was stripped back and rebuilt to create a warm and flexible space. Improvements include a new roof, upgraded insulation, composite cladding, new windows and secure metal doors. Inside, changing rooms have been fully refurbished with new flooring, redecorated ceilings, improved seating and electric showers. The main hall has also been refreshed to make it brighter and more welcoming.
Future proofing
Pathhead Pavilion has undergone similar improvements, including a new roof, better insulation, refreshed external finishes, internal redecoration and upgraded changing facilities. The work has helped future-proof the building, making it more comfortable, energy efficient and attractive for the groups who use it.
Cold and uncomfortable
Mary Davidson of Gorebridge Community Council recalls how cold Birkenside used to be. “It was too chilly to take your coat off,” she says. Now she describes the changes as “amazing”. The pavilion hosts a range of groups and the community council’s annual Christmas event for pensioners. “It will be lovely to see their faces this year,” she adds.
Winter woes
The projects were not without challenges. Project Manager Lynsay Ann Stewart highlighted the difficulty of removing Birkenside’s roof during winter, when heavy snow caused additional ceiling damage. As Michael also notes, hidden issues are common with older buildings.
On time and budget
Despite this, both projects were completed on time and within budget, thanks to strong coordination and problem solving by council teams and contractor RP Slight.
Increased enquiries
The benefits are already clear. Sport and Leisure’s Facilities Officer for Halls Pavilions and Pitches, Sharon Lynch says Pathhead Pavilion is already welcoming back groups including Brownies, Tynewater Community Development Project Tuesday Café and Pathhead Horticultural Society. There are plenty of new enquiries for both pavilions, including for children's parties, she adds.
Big change
Angela Horsburgh of the Community Development Trust, who helped push the Birkenside project forward, is not surprised at the increased interest. She sums up Birkenside’s transformation: “It used to be a bit run down but it’s looking absolutely fantastic now.”
Birkenside before and after its transformation
Making a difference
These pavilions are now valued community assets – a strong example of investment delivering real impact.
In the picture
From left to right: Chair of Gorebridge Community Council (GCC) Gail Robertson, Richard Horsburgh and Mary Davidson of GCC, Project Manager Lynsay Ann Stewart, Kevin Brown of contractor RP Slight, Angela Horsburgh of the Community Development Trust, Iain Smith of RP Slight, Sport and Leisure Manager Sharon Lynch, Clerk of Works Michael McIntosh and pavilion user William Clark of Gorebridge Loyal Orange Lodge.