A Moray community group is powering ahead with £700,000 plans to regenerate a crumbling local landmark.
The century-old Fochabers Institute has fallen into dilapidation over recent decades under council control, but a village group has embarked on a crusade to preserve it for future generations.
This summer, the Fochabers Village Association was granted authority over the venue and launched an ambitious strategy to prevent any further deterioration.
Moray Council pledged the group control of the institute, thought to be worth £110,000, and a further £150,000 to carry out a string of urgent repairs.
Chairman of the village association, Gordon Christie, said the initial windfall was only the first step towards reinvigorating the historic hall.
After the community asset transfer was approved on the venue in June, the group replaced its rickety heating system with a biomass boiler, and solar panels are being fixed to its roof this weekend.
Mr Christie said: “It’s been a hectic few months, we’ve had a lot of meetings as we try to find our way forward with the Institute.
“The first thing we sorted was a new heating system, and we’re pleased that we can soon start generating power with the solar panels.”
The building currently has about 17,000 users but the association hopes to double that figure by the time it is fully restored.
The group now aims to improve the structure’s external walls and roof as a matter of priority.
Its long term aims for the venue are to refurbish its concert space in order to stage shows and art events, and to hire it out for functions.
The group also aspires to create a centre which will provide internet access and tourist information, as well as acting as a public meeting point.
It is estimated that fully restoring the building will cost a further £710,000.
Mr Christie added: “We’ve been encouraged by the public support we’ve had, and we hope we can carry that on.
“Our main aim now is collecting the money to carry out further repairs, and we’re looking at staging our own fundraisers as well as applying for grants from different bodies.”
The Fochabers Village Association is will hold an open night on November 18, at 7.30pm for residents keen to get involved.