Army Cadets building in Banff is officially opened
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Lord Lieutenant of Banffshire Andrew Simpson officially opened the Highland Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association’s new cadet building in Banff.
The ceremony was attended by association executives, local councillors and representatives from schools in the area.
After the Lord lieutenant had addressed those present and unveiled a plaque to commemorate the occasion he spoke to the cadets and adult volunteers present.
An Army Cadets spokesman said: "Our grateful thanks to the Lord Lieutenant for performing the official opening and to Highland Reserve Forces' and Cadets' Association whose help and commitment ensured this fantastic facility is now in use."
The building was lifted into place by a crane in five sections during the construction phase last year.
The sections were manufactured off site and the modern, energy efficient design replaces the old hut that had passed the point of economical repair.
The £400,000 building was designed to the specifications of the Army Cadet Force (ACF) and Highland Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association (HRFCA) by JAMstudio in Aberdeen and built and installed by Healthmatic. Macduff Crane Hire took care of the heavy lifting.
The design features a drill hall, two classrooms, an office, kitchen, store and toilets.
It forms part of HRFCA’s £1.4 million programme of cadet building replacements and follows similar builds in Aberdeen, Newport and Bo’ness.
Cadets from 2nd Battalion The Highlanders ACF will use the Banff facility.
Cadets and adult volunteers from the Banff Detachment had been travelling to Portsoy, sharing resources with the Portsoy Detachment while the demolition of the old building and the construction of the new building was completed.
Major Stuart Eddie, Cadet Executive Officer for 2nd Battalion The Highlanders, said: “This is an important new lease of life for the Army Cadets in Banff, with a fantastic new building designed and built to the needs of the cadets and a world away from the building it replaces.
“It is in a prime site in the heart of the town. This is a boost for the community and highlights the importance placed on providing youngsters aged between 12 and 18 opportunities to learn skills, have adventure, form new friendships and have great fun.
“The ACF has a Diversity and Inclusion ethos and our doors, particularly the doors of this new facility, are open to all youngsters, regardless of background or ability. They just need an enthusiasm to learn, take part, have a go and enjoy.”
