Depute Provost Claire Leitch and Councillor Neal Ingram, Cabinet Spokesperson for Equalities and Inclusion, were delighted to attend the re-opening of the KULOC building in Kilmarnock recently after a major refurbishment.
The building, which is home to the Chinese Community Association of Kilmarnock, urgently required repairs including a new roof, kitchen, updated heating system and new soft furnishings. After the group successfully applied for over £50,000 from the Place Based Investment Programme and grant assistance from the Whitelee Renewable Energy Fund, the building has been successfully upgraded.
The refurbishment will undoubtedly make a real difference to the lives of many Chinese community members who now have a place to meet and hold events which they have not been able to do since before COVID. The group is keen to open the building up and invite other groups to come along to future events which will further promote equality and inclusion within the community.
The grand re-opening event featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony, musical entertainment and lunch.
Depute Provost Leitch said:
“This was a momentous occasion for the KULOC group who have worked so hard to bring their building back up to such a good standard. The Association is always looking to welcome new people so if anyone is interested, then please get in touch with them directly; they’d be delighted to hear from you.”
Over the past few years the group has been supported by Vibrant Communities who helped the group to apply for funding and source reputable companies to carry out the work, as well as offering advice and encouragement. The project has also had support from other partners including invaluable advice from Community Led Regeneration through the Place Based Investment Programme and SHD Property Care who worked above and beyond to finish the work.