Fresh chapter for Strathpeffer Pavilion looms as ownership agreement reached
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A MOVE that could open a new chapter in the life into an iconic Ross-shire landmark was approved today.
It could ultimately see Strathpeffer Pavilion come under the ownership by a community trust with a fresh vision for the facility.
At today's Highland Council Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee, a request to take over ownership of the gardens and buildings surrounding Strathpeffer Pavilion, including the tennis courts, band stand and Pump Room for just £1, was given the green light.
The sale is conditional on the Trust being successful in purchasing the Pavilion building from the Scottish Historic Buildings Trust.
If successful, their plan is to secure the pavilion and its wider site for community use through an innovative partnership with High Life Highland who currently operate the venue.
It was one of two such deals agreed.
Members also also agreed to transfer the Bettyhill Visitor Centre to the Strathnaver Museum, creating an opportunity for an enhanced cultural heritage and community hub in the far north.
Until recently, the visitor centre with a café, situated next to the Strathnaver Museum, was run by VisitScotland.
The Strathnaver Museum put forward a request for the council to transfer the building so it can continue as a café and information point for visitors and play an integral role in the museum’s viability and future development plans.
In both cases, the applicants will cover both the council’s and their own costs associated with the transfers.
Committee chairman Cllr Allan Henderson said: “There is the potential for both organisations to tap into the tourist boom we are experiencing, especially along the popular NC500 route, and to encourage visitors to stop and spend some time exploring and learning more about the local heritage and history.
“Both transfer requests have received the backing from local members and I am sure they will all join me in wishing Strathnaver Museum and the Strathpeffer Pavillion Community Trust all the very best with their plans.”
What do YOU think about the plans for Strathpeffer? Share your views by emailing newsdesk@spp-group.com
