The public consultation for the John Cowane’s House project was held Tuesday 04th, Wednesday 05th and Thursday 06th June 2024 in the Cowane’s Hospital, Stirling, FK8 1ED.
From the plans on show to the questionnaire that followed, 100% of respondents were in favour of the building being re-opened to the public.
95% of respondents agreed or strongly agreed that the project would breathe new life into the Old Town, with 100% agreeing that the building should be made available for community use and projects.
96% of respondents agreed or strongly agreed that a community grow & wellbeing garden would be hugely beneficial along with 91% of respondents agreeing or strongly agreeing that a volunteer programme should be made available.
A range of ideas were proposed to be included within the use of the building and garden as follows:
• Restoring the house to its former glory.
• Paintings in a weatherproof format to be included within the building.
• Would like to ensure that the ‘garden’ is open to both locals and tourists to foster connections between the two groups.
• Information and interactive activities for children and families along with garden activities.
• Interpretive boards and maybe an audio guide.
• I would like to see consideration of all the other historic assets in Stirling and demonstrating how they all link together as one.
• A clear educational display on the history of the building and its evolution.
• History, interpretation, story of the restoration, community garden and growing space.
• An exit into King Stables Lane.
• If re-introducing bees, they require to be 2m apart and kept far away from people.
• It should be something that the community can be proud of.
• To have refreshments like a local coffee van.
• Hands on interpretation videos.
• Think the plans that you have put together are great. Maybe look at having a mobile/pop-up café in the summer months.
• Signage.
• An early start to refurbishment.
• Planting beds for fruit and vegetables.
• Quiet space and a relaxing water feature.
• An area of interest for children.
• School engagement, college involvement as well as that of local people.
• A means of bringing the story alive in relation to the history of the building.
• A roof eventually.
The consultation proved to be hugely beneficial and both staff and Patrons of the Cowane’s Trust would like to extend their thanks and appreciation to all those who attended over the course of the 3 days and for their valuable input.
The Trust will be looking to incorporate several of the suggestions and feedback into the future use of the building and garden.
