THE Vale of Leven Trust is urging residents to give their views on the future of Alexandria Community Centre.

In September, a masterplan for Alexandria was published and approved by West Dunbartonshire Council.

Alexandria Community Centre scored above average in importance for the town and the residents and is one of the key sites identified in the masterplan.

The Trust said the best way to ensure the future of the “thriving” community centre is to bring it into community ownership.

It has been successful in gaining funding from the Scottish Land Fund to undertake a feasibility study and assessment of the condition of the building, with a view to completing an asset transfer application.

The masterplan made some suggestions for the centre, including making internal and external improvements to the building, and working with local businesses and community groups to develop a year-round events calendar.

Members have ideas for what the centre could become, including spaces for local community groups, a place for the community to socialise, a venue for events, somewhere to eat out, workspaces and business facilities.

The Trust said they want to ensure that whatever happens next at the centre reflects the community’s aspirations for the building - and they want to hear from local people, sports teams, community groups and local businesses.

Trustee Janice Ross said: “This is an opportunity for the community to get involved in what would be a fantastic facility for everyone, from the youngest to the oldest.

“It could be somewhere right on your doorstep for kids to play, families to meet, folk to relax or participate in any number of activities. We are looking for the community to tell us what they would like to see at Alexandria Community Centre.”

Residents can make their voices heard at an open drop-in event on Thursday, December 16 from 12pm to 6.30pm at the cafe within the community centre.

Tea, coffee and home baking will be available, and a “Christmas Crafternoon” for children well take place between 3pm and 4.30pm.

An online community survey is available on the Vale of Leven Trust Facebook page.

Paper copies can be picked up and dropped off at the Trust’s Active Travel Hub in Mitchell Way and can also be posted out on request.

For more details on the trust’s work, or the community survey, email info@valeofleven trust.com or leave a message on 01389 752629.