16th March 2018 mn_admin

About

The Story behind the Stow Community Trust (SCT)

Stow Community Trust (SCT) exists to join in local community ventures to develop social, cultural and economic opportunities for the common good. The Trust is established as a company limited by guarantee not having share capital, comprising a board of volunteer directors and a large body of members. More information can be found on the Companies House website and you can also download our Articles of Association.

The Trust was established in September 2009 with the intention of developing the former primary school into a business centre with workspaces. This was an initiative that was first promoted by the Stow and Fountainhall Community Council and as the project developed, it was deemed more appropriate that a separate body be created to take the project forward.

Our Mission Statement

To promote Stow as a great place to live in and destination

What we will do:

    • Create a sustainable asset for the community
    • Establish a successful village pub/kitchen and cycling business
    • Refurbish the building as part of celebrating  our heritage
    • Provide a multi-purpose room for community and wider use
    • Create and supporting local jobs and training opportunities
    • Contribute to the social and economic wellbeing of the village and beyond.

Current Projects

Our most significant project to date has been the refurbishment and extension of the Station House at Stow Railway Station. In 2013, the construction of the Borders Railway began in earnest and the SCT realised that the former station building and station master’s house would not be included as part of the modern station and knew that the community would have to act if the Victorian building was not to be demolished. The Station House has proved to be a daunting project for the SCT but with community support the Trust is determined to see the building regenerated to become a positive asset for the community at large.

We are also providing a governance framework for a sub-group developing proposals for the Stow Pump Track.

As part of the Station House project we are also developing a new Cycle Hub for Stow. Related to this, we have also launched an e-bike hire and trial service.

Current Board

Trustees:

Grace Murray (Chair)

Tom Parnell (Vice-Chair)

Helen Corcoran (Company Secretary)

Eibhlin McHugh (Treasurer)

James Duncan

Mags McPherson

Robin Thomson

Co-opted Trustees:

Jenny Mushlin
Representative of Parish of Stow Community Council

Cllr Andy Anderson
Representative of Scottish Borders Council