£450k for building's new lease of life
A building which was a bowling alley in Macduff before being damaged by fire will be resurrected after councillors agreed more than £450,000 should be spent on its restoration.
Aberdeenshire Council’s Banff and Buchan area committee decided that the money should be spent on the premises at Gamrie Road.
The costs for the restoration of the former Harley’s Bowling Alley will be covered by an insurance payout.
A substantial part of the structure, cladding, windows and the interior of the property were badly damaged by the fire in September 2016.
A business, which has not yet been identified, will move into the property when it is finished.
Councillor Andy Kille, Aberdeenshire Council’s Banff and Buchan area committee chairman, said: “It is heartening to see this committee’s decision to bring this premises back into use.
“Once the work is complete, this building will be a great new home for a business in Macduff, which will be a boost to the town and the local economy.”
A number of fire crews and other emergency services were called to the incident when the blaze took hold nearly three years ago.
Morrison Construction has been appointed to carry out the work which is set to begin in August and is expected to be completed by the end of the year.
Committee vice-chairman councillor Michael Roy said: “This decision shows the important role area committees play in helping ensure that regeneration and renewal takes place in the places they serve.
“I hope that the new business that uses this fantastic premises as its base really thrives.”
