The transformation of the Pavilion in Howwood Park from a “gloomy shell” to a “bright and friendly space” has been applauded by an elected member.

Tribute has been paid to the “dedication and commitment” of Friends of Howwood Park (FHP), the community group behind the facility’s renovation.

Councillor Andy Doig, an independent representative for the village, also praised the “teamwork and leadership” shown during the project after a brief update was included in a report to Tuesday’s economy and regeneration policy board.

The group had received £25,000 in local action group cash for the refurbishment, in addition to various other awards from a range of funding pots. The total cost of the works has exceeded £100,000.

Councillor Doig, a member of the board, told the Local Democracy Reporting Service: “I think the fact that the largest award went to the Friends of the Howwood Park is a great testimony to their years of dedication and commitment to changing Howwood Park from an area that needed a lot of attention to one that now does not just attract local kids, but kids from outwith Howwood as well. I salute their community activism.

“A combination of teamwork and leadership have taken the Howwood Park Pavilion from a very forgotten, forlorn, and gloomy shell to the modern, bright and friendly space that it is now.

“The spirit behind much of that vision and leadership has been from Gillian Whyte, of the FHP, and the people of Howwood owe Gillian an outstanding debt of gratitude.

“A few months ago I was very privileged to attend an open day which the FHP organised. Many years ago I had a tour of the Pavilion prior to its renovation and it is like night and day.

“It has a functioning kitchen and various spaces for community use. I wish the FHP all the best on the next stage of their journey to making it a fully-functioning community space.”