Markethill District Enterprise purchased the dilapidated former courthouse in 1997 and, having received funding, restored the building at a cost of £894,000. This building is now home to MDE and provides a neutral venue for a variety of community groups and social activities.
Markethill District Enterprise Ltd acts as an umbrella organisation and provides much-needed support for member groups in the area. As a larger charitable concern, the Enterprise works towards attracting funding and distributing promotional material to assist these member groups. This has enabled these community bodies to make a valuable contribution to their environmental surroundings and community life.
In recent years, Markethill District Enterprise Limited has also been instrumental in the restoration of Johnston House for office and retail use, demonstrating a practical interest in the architectural heritage of the town. Other achievements have been the construction of a new roundabout and the introduction of improved street lighting and paving, complimented by a tree-planting scheme.
For some time now, MDE have been attempting to secure a future for Gosford Forest Park by commissioning feasibility studies and looking at ways of encouraging tourists to frequent the area. With imagination and community support, these ideas could become a reality.