Efforts to completely refurbish a hidden cottage in a Mintlaw park could move forward next week if councillors approve a funding bid.
Derelict Forester’s Cottage in Aden Park was once the home of the park’s ranger, but since the late 1990s it has slowly fallen into a state of disrepair.
Plans to bring it back into use have been in the works since 2014.
And on Tuesday, members of the Buchan area committee will be asked to approve an application to the Leader programme asking for £135,000 to make the project a reality.
The effort is part of a wider project to develop the park as a holiday destination with camping and caravan facilities.
The cottage is said to be a “key” aspect of the authority’s vision for the park and will be fully restored to provide a three-bedroom holiday home with living room and kitchen facilities.
In his report, to be discussed next week, the council’s director of business services Ritchie Johnson, said: “The sheltered and quiet location of the cottage will be an added attraction for any family who require a peaceful environment for a child or children with special needs.”
The council estimates the entire park project will cost £205,000.
In addition to the Leader funding, £24,500 has been earmarked for the scheme from the council’s own budget and a further £70,000 could come from an application to Historic Environment Scotland.
Mr Johnson added: “It is proposed that Forester’s Cottage is operated as an all-year round holiday let via a lease or management agreement with the Buchan Development Initiative, alongside the existing caravan park and glamping pods.
“This would allow Forester’s Cottage to be managed as part of a suite of accommodation in the park and be jointly promoted and marketed as such.”
Alan Rever, who worked at the park between 1977 and 1988, first raised concerns about the condition of the building.
He said: “I understand there hasn’t been a ranger living there for 10 years and there are plans to do the house up.
“It will obviously cost much more than it would have done if the council had maintained the house in the first place.”
