THE community-led restoration of the former police station in Langholm has been shortlisted for an award.
The Category B listed building is one of three projects shortlisted in the housing and regeneration category of this year’s SURF Awards.
The Eskdale Foundation has completed the restoration of the former police station to provide four community-owned affordable homes, with partnership support from South of Scotland Community Housing (SOSCH) – working alongside a design team led by John Gilbert Architects.
The high-profile empty town centre property has been restored to its former glory, including reinstatement of unique features, after laying empty for 15 years.
Chief Executive at SOSCH Mike Staples said: “We’re delighted that the SURF judging panel has recognised the unique nature of this project by shortlisting it.
“The heritage and restoration aspects of the building made for a challenging project, but we feel that strong partnership and stakeholder support throughout has ensured delivery, with four sets of tenants now benefiting from bright, welcoming, warm, safe and secure homes.
“The repurposing of empty buildings as energy efficient community-led housing is a great contributor to Net Zero and we welcome the support of the Scottish Government’s Rural Housing Fund to enable this type of project.”
The award ceremony will take place in Glasgow on December 9.
