The Learning Space recently expanded into 'The Old Bakehouse' in Gavinton to provide additional space for creative projects. The Blackhill Community fund has already very kindly supported by part funding the renovations of the two Scotch ovens within the bakehouse bringing the ovens and chimneys back into safe working order after their abandonment in the mid 1970s. The original ovens and chimneys in the Old Bakehouse were carefully restored using original materials where possible and can be used for baking projects by the young people who attend The Learning Space.
However, due to the size of the ovens it takes a significant time and large investment in fuel to heat them sufficiently for baking which limits the practicality of using these ovens. We are looking for support to purchase gas burners that can be used within the ovens to allow them to be used more quickly and easily for baking projects. It is our intention to use bio-gas as a source of clean, renewable fuel. In addition we require funding for cooking equipment to enable larger groups from within the community to participate in classes such as traditional bread making and making pizzas. We require additional funding to finish to fully complete the project.
If we are able to finish the ovens quickly we have a strategy in place to help our community during the Covid 19 crisis. When complete the ovens could bake 40 loaves of bread, the Director of The Learning Space is a qualified experienced baker and we hope to deliver fresh loaves to vulnerable, socially isolated members of our community. Once the crisis is over the ovens would then be used for our ongoing young clients and long term Learning Space project.
The project has been hugely supported by the community over the last five years with donations from local business and fundraising events but we are not there yet.
The rural nature of our area can make it very difficult to find appropriate support for vulnerable young people. Our project has a dual benefit for our young clients and the wider community.
Baking with our clients is limited with one small electric oven at present. The addition of the gas burners will allow us to expand our numbers. The sessions involve planning and design, risk assessment, measuring, following instructions and allow creativity whilst developing core life skills and building confidence and self-esteem.
Positive outcomes may involve a successful transition either back to school or using skills gained to access training, employment or enter further education. For the outside community The Bakehouse will regain its former glory by hosting sessions to local residents of all ages teaching traditional baking techniques in the restored traditional ovens using locally sourced ingredients.
We think it will be wonderful resource for both The Learning Space and community for many years to come.
We are requesting £2500 to help us finish the project and get the old ovens working again. The total cost of the project is £5000. We require gas burners, pipes and gas bottle including installation and labour. We also require equipment such as -Bread & Pizza baking tins, Weighing scales, Fire extinguishers etc..
