We have been behind the scenes to see the great progress being made as construction work continues at The Standard.

Our Interim Executive Director Kathryn Hill, Treasurer Carol Hill (who, coincidentally, is Kathryn’s mum) and Buildings Manager David Hill (no relation!) were joined by Andrew Richards from Homes For Good and South of Scotland Community Housing Programme Manager Morgan Eller on a tour of the site.

The group was shown around by Allister Duff, site manager for our contractors RH Irving.

They saw the progress being made on what will be flexible community and enterprise areas, as well as the seven flats which will sit above them.

***Allister Duff, centre, talking through progress at The Standard from the rear of the construction site***

Carol said: “It was great to get behind the hoardings and see just how well things are taking shape.

“These are going to be fantastic spaces which will add something special to the town centre, whether you are looking for desk space to work from - with some great views - to hold meetings, exhibitions, events or even for retail. It is going to be so versatile.

“And the flats really will signal the beginning of a new era for living on our High Street. They are being finished to an incredibly good standard, with some offering amazing views of the town - and beyond.

“This is really going to be a special place to live and work

“Our thanks go to Allister for sparing the time to let us see the progress for ourselves when he and the team are so busy.”

***Carol Hill, left, and Kathryn Hill talking through one of the enterprise spaces on the ground floor of The Standard***

Scaffolding is gradually being removed from parts of the outside of the building, which is allowing passers-by to see more of the new part of the building.

Among the latest additions to the frontage, meanwhile, has been the sandstone sign at the entrance to Standard Close, which runs between The Standard and WH Smith.

Kathryn added: “The team from RH Irving are doing a fantastic job. It’s great to see the flats being fitted out and the progress being made with the public spaces on the lower floors.

“People are really interested in the opportunities which will become available as the year goes on, which is really encouraging.

“We are keen to keep those conversations going and to speak with anyone interested in finding out more about The Standard and how they may be able to use it, or any of our other spaces.

“By the end of the summer, the range of ways in which we can work with people, enterprises and organisations of all kinds will be more varied than ever.”

To arrange a chat, email kathryn@midsteeplequarter.org.

You can read more about the naming of The Standard and the unveiling of our artwork, Welcome Hame, here.