Take a look around at the TIA

THE Torquay Improvement Association (TIA) is opening its doors on Sunday and is inviting the community to take a look around, including inside its just-finished new building.

The TIA hall in Price Street was built by its members in the 1890s, where it became a focal point for activities in the then-growing town of Torquay.

The association has been at the site ever since, expanding the hall 12 years ago to accommodate more users.

Demand continued to increase, so the TIA worked for several years (especially the past two) to design and create a new building on its block, with construction completed on May 28.

TIA secretary Lynda O’Flaherty said only one group had used the building since its completion, so it was essentially brand new.

“It’s quite impressive, we’re very proud of it. After the open day, the bookings will start in earnest.

“We’re just running out of room in there. I know (the hall) seems big, but they all want it at the same time, and we just had so many groups who wanted something a little bit different, so that’s where this has come in.”

The TIA’s spaces are heavily used by community groups from Torquay and elsewhere including dance, karate, church, singing, exercise and dancing clubs.

“A lot of mornings are free, but every afternoon is full – it’s empty now (Monday morning), but on Tuesday or Wednesday, if you came down here at five o’clock, there’d be 100 kids here,” treasurer Lesley McQuinn said.

The open day will be held at the TIA, 8-12 Price Street, Torquay, on Sunday from 2pm.

For more information on the associaiton, search for “Torquay Improvement Association Inc.” on Facebook.