The former site of The Reel, a popular café and music school in Kirkwall, is poised for redevelopment into an educational facility. The Orkney Islands Council (OIC) has submitted a planning application to transform the three-storey building on Broad Street into a Community Learning and Development Centre.
The Reel operated for 16 years before closing due to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Since its closure, the property has remained unused for over five years, prompting the local authority to explore new opportunities to revitalize the space.
Plans for Educational Development
If approved, the new centre will focus on providing essential skills training, including cooking and information technology classes. The initiative aims to enhance community engagement and support lifelong learning among residents.
According to the OIC, this redevelopment reflects a commitment to fostering educational opportunities in the region. The potential transformation of The Reel is seen as a significant step towards reinvigorating the local community and addressing the educational needs of its residents.
Local reaction has been mixed, with some expressing enthusiasm about the potential benefits of a new learning centre. Others, however, have raised concerns regarding the loss of a beloved cultural venue. The OIC is expected to consider these views as part of the planning process.
Next Steps in the Planning Process
The planning application is currently under review, with a decision anticipated in the coming months. If approved, the redevelopment may pave the way for additional community-focused initiatives in Kirkwall, contributing to the area’s social and economic development.
For the latest updates on this story and other local news, residents can turn to local publications, including The Orcadian, which will provide ongoing coverage of the planning process and its implications.
The future of The Reel could mark a new chapter for both the building and the community it serves, underscoring the importance of adaptive reuse in urban development.
