Community Space Spruced Up
With the support of The Arthur Bell Trust and residents of Smiths Court, The Langholm Alliance have transferred a popular thoroughfare in the town centre. Wattie’s Arch was once a dull and unloved space between David Street and the High Street, often a target for anti social behaviour. The Tourism Group under the Langholm Alliance saw an opportunity to create a space for resident and visitor information, in response to the relocation of the information hub from the Market Place to the Kilngreen. After consultation with the residents and businesses who were all in favour of a refurbishment,, the funding was secured and the work began in January 2023.
The space is now bright and welcoming with a large noticeboard advertising “What’s on” in the town and area, with the town brand Langholm Explore and Discover surrounding the Board making it stand out from passers by on the High Street.
In addition, a large display board was erected to create a display area for the many painted slates left around the town at residents front door’s during the Covid Pandemic. This is showcasing the caring community and how we all pulled together and supported each other during this difficult time.
The newly refurbished Wattie’s Arch was unveiled in July 2023 by the family of one of the mystery slate painters, Ali Waugh. Her two sons and daughter-in-law travelled up for the day to be part of the unveiling.
We encourage any community group or individual to hand in posters or information they want displayed in the noticeboard and to look at the many heart-warming messages on each slate.
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