THE under-threat Millport Town Hall could be yet be saved from closure, the News can reveal.

Cumbrae Community Council are planning to order a feasibility study looking at preserving the building.

They have received feedback from people on the island who are upset that the facility could be closed down and sold off.

Angie McCallum, community council secretary, said: "Many of the residents feel that the loss of this historic building would be to the detriment of the island.

"It holds many dear memories and could provide a seriously needed hall space once again.

"The lack of hall space has been compounded this month by the imminent closure of the DA Hall for emergency asbestos removal works.

"The Town Hall is owned by Millport Common Good Fund and it is felt that as such it should be rescued for the good of the community once more."

The community council have received an updated survey and are now fundraising to pay for the feasibility study.

Current estimates suggest it would cost less than £500,000 to carry out repairs to the building, which was originally built in 1877 and has served the community for 140 years.

The results of the feasibility study would be published and a decision taken about whether the hall could be retained.

Angie added: "There are many ideas as to how the building could become self sustaining and as with any proposal by any group, it would be important to complement any other proposals for exciting island developments."

Phil Lonsdale, community council chairman, added: "We have made quite a few enquiries and it would cost well under half a million pounds to restore it back.

"Discussions are taking place with funders to secure money for a feasibility study.

"It will take time, but at least it is moving."

Cllr. Alex Gallagher, economy chair for North Ayrshire Council, said: "There is a capacity problem on the island at the moment with the DA Hall and Town Hall being closed, and I have every sympathy with the Cumbrae Community Council and getting the town hall back into use, but the council have already done studies on it, and its viability, and it very much depends on the finances being available.

"The council faces huge cuts every year and if the community council can come up with a viable plan, then that would be good for the island."

In its heyday, Millport Town Hall, hosted many successful events, including Scottish Country Dancing championships, the Cumbrae Plant Show and many live music and festival events.

The building also used to host the island library but that moved to The Garrison after it re-opened in 2008.

Cumbrae Community Development Company are set to launch a forthcoming consultation about possibly bringing a £6m community centre and multi-function area to the Garrison grounds.