Plans to safeguard one of Moray’s oldest monuments from collapse and transform it into a tourist attraction have been approved by the local authority.
The Kinloss Abbey Trust has ambitions to create a visitor centre on the grounds of the 12th century ruin, but requires the crumbling structure to be made safe before any work can begin.
Yesterday Moray Council pledged more than £20,000 towards installing scaffolding around a rickety tower and carrying out work to ensure it remains upright.
Kinloss Abbey Trust member JJ Johnston said the decision would pave the way for the reinvention of the Grade A-listed venue.
He said: “This is the start of a journey that will allow us to conserve an important part of Moray.
“The abbey holds a very rich history, but before we can review and inspect it we need it to be safe.
“I’m delighted the council agreed approved our application.”
The Kinloss Abbey Trust has raised enough money to commission a feasibility study into its potential uses, and the group hopes eventually to assume control of the site from Moray Council.
Corporate director Mark Palmer told the council’s policy and resources committee that if repairs were not swiftly undertaken, the Abbot’s House building could collapse in winter weather.
The work will include scaffolding being erected around the tower of the Abbot’s House, at a cost of £6,600, and masonry works to steady it at a cost of £15,700.
Forres councillor Anne Skene said: “This is one of the oldest ecclesiastical buildings in Moray, and its preservation is of national significance.
“This decision will give the trust confidence that it has the council’s support.”
Kinloss Abbey was founded in 1150 and was at one time the largest Cistercian monastery in Scotland.
After it stopped being used as a place of worship in 1657 it fell into dilapidation, as large chunks of stone were gradually removed from the disused venue by locals and farmers.