A MAMMOTH eight-year regeneration project has seen a dilapidated Dalton building transformed into a thriving community hub.
Since 2008, trustees of the Dalton Community Association have helped to amass more than £400,000 which has gone towards creating a new community centre in the building that used to be known as the Drill Hall.
The Nelson Street premises, which is now recognised as Dalton Community Centre, celebrated its new look with two public open days that showcased all the work that has been undertaken in just under a decade.
READ MORE: Dalton grandmother nostalgically remembers wartime home
Dalton leaders issue petition plea over landscape damaging pylons
Cumbria county councillor for Dalton North, Barry Doughty, who is chairman of the association, has been credited with guiding the project to the finishing line.
He said: "I'm too modest to say it was just me but I have tried to be the driving force behind it. However, overall this would never have been possible without help from the trustees and friends alike.
"I am chuffed with how it has all turned out and over the past four weeks we've had 4,000 people come through our doors which, in any case, is just amazing."
Mr Doughty is now hoping that he can share his wisdom with other groups through Cumbria Council for Voluntary Service so that more community centres can be built to the highest possible standard.
He added: "I think lessons can be learned from the process and I hope that I will be able to invite community groups to a seminar where I can share some of the difficulties and triumphs that we encountered.
"It was not all plain sailing and there were some low points but I think it's worth sharing the importance of realising that these things can't be done quickly but you will get there in the end."
READ MORE: Dalton residents encouraged to explore new-look community hub on two public open days
Fundraisers praise community for saving Dalton church
Barrow and Furness MP John Woodcock, who attended Friday's event, praised Cllr Doughty for his contribution.
He added: "I recall seeing the musty old Drill Hall when Barry had just embarked on his transformation project and I was probably not alone in thinking he had his work cut out.
"But he has accomplished what he set out do do and now the Dalton Community Centre is both a credit to the town and a silent witness to Barry's determination, imagination and powers of persuasion."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here