Work begins to replace old Annan Library with new day centre

Demolition work is under way to dismantle the old Annan Library in Charles Street ready for a new build home for the town’s day centre.

The public library is now housed in the town hall and the old building was deemed surplus to Dumfries and Galloway Council needs.

The keys to the premises were handed to the Annan Day Centre in November as a community asset transfer for £1.

The charity, which is keen to move out of the Market Halls in Downies Wynd to its own site, has been fundraising to meet expected renovation costs of £250,000.

However, the plans suffered a setback after a blaze broke out in December and the building has been targeted by vandals since.

Earlier this year, the council earmarked £50,000 to knock the building down as it poses a “significant” health and safety risk.

Demolition work now under way is expected to be completed by the end of the month.

The charity said it will soon announce what it is planning for a new build on the site and with changes and rising costs, is working harder than ever to raise funds for the work, with support from the local community.

Annan Day Centre provides an invaluable service to over 50s to promote inclusion, wellbeing and belonging.

It offers a wide range of services, supports physical and mental health, meals on wheels and events and meals to prevent isolation.

A spokesperson for the centre said: “We can’t wait to grow our team, bring forward new services and have a beautiful new building in a fabulous location.”

Annan resident Marie Marshall raised £1,550 for the project by completing a 95-mile ultra marathon race with more than 14,760ft of climbing along the West Highland Way in 35 hours last June.

Marie is now determined to raise more cash this year and has stepped into her running shoes again to take on the Triple Crown Challenge – three ultra marathons in Scotland – The Highland Fling, The West Highland Way and the Devil of the Highlands.

She faces racing just under 200 miles and 30,000ft of climbing with every penny raised helping Annan Day Centre.

She will take on the 53 miles Highland Fling run next month; the 95 miles West Highland Way race – which finishes on Ben Nevis – in June and then, over 42 miles, The Devil o’ the Highlands Footrace in August.

Marie, who has already raised £500 so far, said: “This extreme challenge will take unbelievable amounts of training and commitment, however, it is all for a great cause and I would be very grateful for any support.”

Anyone who wants to donate can go online at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/marie-marshall11.