Established in 1901 as Lodge Hozier Douglas Water Hall (LHDWH), the hall now provides a space for the community of Douglas Water and can host a variety of activities from hobby workshops and fitness classes to training sessions, community meetings, social gatherings and private events.

Councillors agreed that the REF should award a grant of £134,347 that will go towards refurbishing the exterior of the hall. This will include a new roof, rendering, roughcasting, and drainage to ensure the hall is windtight, watertight, safe, secure and visually appealing to ensure it is a welcoming space for all.

The grant will be funded from Gallawhistle Wind Farm, which contributes to the REF.

The remaining £44,782 of the £179,130 total project cost is still to be confirmed by Clyde Wind Farm.

Past Chair of the Committee Alex McBroom said: “I am really glad and excited to learn that our application for funding from the Renewable Energy Fund has been approved.

“Everyone associated with Douglas Water Hall is gratefully appreciative of all the support we get from our friends in the local area and everyone at South Lanarkshire Council.”

Chair of the council’s Community and Enterprise Resources Committee, Councillor Robert Brown, said: “The project has been established in response to consultation with current members, users and local groups needing community space within the Rigside and Douglas area.

“Spaces like this are vital for the local community and I am delighted that the REF is able to support it in this way.”