Impressed by YMCA Tayside’s Y Centre breathing new life into a converted church during judging for the Perthshire Chamber of Commerce Star Awards, Kilmac managing director Athole McDonald followed up the donation of a contemporary Porsche chess board by dispatching a team to transform the derelict space.

The five-figure project also enjoyed input from his friend and neighbour, Derek Stronach of DS Developments.

An area to the rear of the one-time St Andrew’s and St Stephen’s Church in Atholl Street had gone on the back burner after November’s official opening by HRH The Princess Royal.

But now young people from a wide range of backgrounds, and staff, are enjoying the accessible sun trap, which features a memorial pod, raised seating, a paved barbecue area, planters created by youngsters and an ancient well, which was uncovered when an ugly 1970s extension was razed to the ground.

Jill McGrath, CEO of YMCA Tayside, had feared a lack of funds would put thoughts of a courtyard development on hold for years, until local businesses came to the rescue.

“We always saw the potential in the area which had been cleared but post pandemic project costs quoted of up to £60,000 had meant it would be a long-term aspiration. There were more immediate priorities,” she explained.

“We are overjoyed by what Athole and his groundworks specialists, and Derek, have done for us. It has been a blessing.

“Like any charity, we are accustomed to begging and borrowing but in this instance, Athole followed up his kind donation of the amazing hand-built chess board by asking what Kilmac could do to help with the rubble filled courtyard.

“It has enabled us to erect a beautiful glass seating pod, kindly fundraised for by friends and family in remembrance of Hayley Sutherland, who was a much-loved youth worker at YMCA Tayside.” 

Working alongside DS Developments tradesmen, Kilmac groundworks specialists Chris Lochrane, Jimmy Garvie and Niall Stirton, led by project manager and designer Jimmy Riddoch, completed the three-week, labour intensive challenge, with materials wheelbarrowed in and out of the site. 

The sun-kissed courtyard is being well used already by youngsters, who have been tasked with creating a time capsule for the glazed well, which will be opened in 50 years. 

“The contents will be of interest to young people in decades to come,” said Jill. 

“The well could have been a headache for us, but it is proving to be a real asset. 

“On residential courses young people sitting around a campfire have really opened-up and shared experiences. The well, when it’s lit up, will create that same relaxed environment.

“A group of young people have played their part under the eye of staff member Richard Hamblett, using their skills to create various planters.” 

Kilmac chief Athole admits he was bowled over when he saw the Perth Y Centre at close quarters. 

“Our team has done a great job with Derek’s help handling the joinery and stonework. It has been a joint project and it’s great to hear the courtyard is already being used by the youngsters,” he said. 

“Years ago, the church would have been at the heart of the community and now the building is in use again. 

“I have kids of my own and it’s great to see how youngsters of all backgrounds and nationalities come together here. The diversity of youngsters enjoying the space and interacting is amazing and it’s helping break down barriers. 

“Like Jill, I could see the potential in a courtyard development and at Kilmac we had the skills required to bring it to fruition as part of our wider Community Impact Initiatives programme, which has included the North Muirton Community Allotments and support for Beautiful Perth, Perth Swim Club, the Rattray Beaver Run and plans to revitalise Craigie Hill Golf Club as a community sports and recreational hub. 

“The Perth Y Centre courtyard was a manageable sized DIY SOS, Garden Rescue style project with quick benefits.”