A vibrant new community space is being created in the heart of a Moray town.
Elgin Youth Development Group (EYDG) has become the first in Moray to successfully take over a council-owned facility.
EYDG is now responsible for the venue next door to its ever-popular Elgin Youth Cafe, on Francis Place.
Events as varied as yoga classes and club meetings are already being held at the building, which has been named the Inkwell.
The former school dates from the 19th century and it was previously used as the Moray Music Centre and temporary council offices.
Former EYDG chairwoman Fiona Birse has a new role as social enterprise development manager, with the task of raising £300,000 to help maximise the potential of the Inkwell.
She said: “We want to put in a community kitchen so we can offer cooking courses, and not just for young people.
“We are also aiming at the 16-24 group who are not in education or employment, to try to give them basic knowledge in cooking.”
Cooking classes could also be held for older people and for young parents involved with Step by Step in Moray, a charity for vulnerable families which currently rents an office in the Inkwell.
Mrs Birse added: “We would like a kitchen that can be put away so we can have a big flexible space.”
Windows will also be installed in the facility, which had been soundproofed when used as the music centre.
There are also plans to put a conservatory at the back of the building, along with a soft-play area for babies and toddlers.
It is hoped the new venue can help expand the service the youth cafe provides.
Incoming EYDG chairman John Ralph said: “We have seen the difference in kids that come here. We see youngsters that are now adults and confident in life.”
The project has had interest from organisations, including Business Gateway, which wish to hold meetings there in 2014.
All profits raised from venue hire costs will support Elgin Youth cafe.
Rates are reasonable, and EYDG also offers catering options.