Plans to transform a former Portsoy sail-making loft into accommodation for north-east tourists have leapt forward after a deal was struck with contractors.
Known as Back Green, the B-listed loft and nearby cottages will be converted into bunkhouse accommodation for up to 25 people at a time.
The contract has been awarded to Banff firm A D Walker Limited and work is now expected to begin by the end of the month.
The project will be run as a community business by the Scottish Traditional Boat Festival when completed.
Last night festival chairman Roger Goodyear said: “We’re really delighted that it’s definitely going to happen and the potential not just for Portsoy but for tourism generally is very, very good.
“This corner of the country is short on bunkhouses and its a very fast-growing sector of the market. It’s a much-needed addition and we’re really looking forward to it being available next year.”
The conversion has been spearheaded by Paul Higson from the North East Scotland Preservation Trust.
He said: “We’ve appointed the main contractor, we have a meeting on Tuesday next week and we hope the contractor will be on site as soon as possible.
“We hope the completed bunkhouse will be open for business next summer.”
As well as four-star accommodation for visitors to the annual boat festival, the bunkhouse will also house participants on the residential boat building courses that will run at the new boat shed.
The project is being funded by a variety of grant giving bodies including the Heritage Lottery Fund, Coastal Communities Fund and Historic Scotland.
The cottages, located east of the village’s caravan park, have been derelict since the 1950s. The comprehensive repair works with restore the loft and cottages, creating sleeping areas, a reception, kitchen and dining room.
The Scottish Traditional Boat Festival – a highlight of the Banffshire tourism calendar – attracts visitors from around the world and this year will be held on July 4 and July 5.