THE revamp of a “derelict, grim” public toilet block is nearing its completion at Shillinghill in Alloa.

Those behind Alloa Hub, which will be operated by the Wee County's first-ever community benefit society, last week showed off the transformative progress made so far.

Diane Brown, project manager at Alloa First, told the Advertiser: “We are absolutely blown away by the spec, it's really-really high quality refurbishment that's been done inside.”

Graphical designs on the exterior have been completed by the town's Bradley Pow at Art is an Option.

Diane said: “He's done a really nice design there which really depicts exactly what's going to go on in the hub: there's a needle for the Clackmannanshire Tapestry, there's walking boots for the walking tours we hope to do, there's a skateboard because we are hoping we are going to get children's groups in there to get them involved with cycling and skateboarding.

“It's definitely worth a look.”

As previously reported, Alloa Hub Ltd – the community benefit society or “ben-com” will be operating the hub, in which people can invest by purchasing shares.

The shares are an investment, not a donation, and will give people a chance to influence how the hub works.

More than 60 people have committed shares so far and the offer will be available past the anticipated opening this summer to allow those interested to see before they buy.

Diane said: “We think when people will come in and see the space – it's so bright and modern, really like nothing else in Alloa at the moment – they will see what their investment is worth and they are going to invest in the community and all the activities that are going to be taking place.”

She added: “It looks like a really modern building, you would never remember that it was the public toilet.

“And, there is a massive disabled toilet with baby changing facilities and a shower for anybody.”

The hub will offer a wide range of services including business and tourism information for residents and visitors to the area, active travel information, e-bike training and support, a Made in Clackmannanshire shop, exhibit the Clackmannanshire Tapestry as well as meeting facilities.

Anthea Coulter, chief officer at Clackmannanshire Third Sector Interface, has also been closely involved in the development of the hub.

With Lottery funding, she hopes to bring in two roles to help run the hub and co-ordinate volunteers.

She told the Advertiser: “It's looking amazing, isn't it?

“It's high quality, lots of space inside, it will have lots going on – it will be a brilliant space.”

She is eager to bring the Clackmannanshire Tapestry into the building along with lots of information available for both residents and visitors.

Anthea added: “Considering it was a derelict, grim public toilet, it's turned into something really smart.”

Visit alloafirst.co.uk/alloahub for more information and to purchase shares or contact andrew.davis@ctsi.org.uk.