A NEW cultural centre has been built on the site of a former Orange hall and Church of Ireland hall in Bready, Co Tyrone.

The centre, commissioned by the Bready and District Ulster Scots Cultural Group (set up by the local Orange lodge), is designed to broaden out the traditional way that the Orange Order is presented and concentrate on more cultural activities, like Scottish country dancing, encouraging community groups, and exploring local history and genealogy. A shop in the centre will also encourage people inside.

The broadening of attitude was also displayed in the choice of designers, Derry-based Michael Hegarty Architects, whose principal has a Catholic background.

The colour and shape of the building reflects the surrounding countryside and village. The angular forms reflect "the folding landscape of the foothills of the Sperrin Mountains and the Donegal hills", says Hegarty.

Twisted parts of the structure reflect the crossed swords of the highland fling and the slanted stones that cross over each other in the coping of the nearby graveyard wall. The facade's blue/grey brick and dark-stone-faced concrete blocks pick up on the dark aspects of the landscape. Key Orange Order members have visited the hall, says Hegarty. "This is a far-sighted development by an organisation like the Orange Order."