PICTURES: Sneak peak inside Huntly's refurbished No. 30 building
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PICTURE snapped during a behind-the-scenes tour of No 30 the Square show the Huntly landmark's impressive transformation.
The building, previously home to Cruickshank's, was purchased by Huntly Development Trust (HDT) in 2019 with cash provided by the Aberdeenshire Town Fund.
HDT also received £2.5 million of Scottish Government funding for the refurbishment project.
Structural work on ground and first floors has now been completed, with the top floor also nearing completion.
The finished building will include – on the ground floor: a retail premises; a café, for which operators are currently being sought, boasting a commercial kitchen; and a 60-seat cinema space.
The cinema, complete apart from the installation of audiovisual equipment, has retractable tiered seating and an optional stage which means it can be turned into an all purpose venue.
Mainstream and event films will be shown at the cinema, being shown two weeks after release to take advantage of a significant discount.
A first floor co-working space will improve Huntly's short-term offering for those without a fixed office, alongside a longer-term option on the second floor.
The training space and activity room, also on the first floor, will suit a range of activities with handy additions including sinks tucked away in cupboards.
No. 30 also features lift access to all floors, so that every room in the building can be reached without navigating stairs.
Accessibility at the renovated building is also improved by featuring a Changing Places toilet, featuring a hoist, bed and shower, so those with severe disabilities can access essential hygiene.
The offering also means that those in need will not longer face the current gap between Inverurie and Elgin.
One of the project's crowning glories is a hall on the first floor, which could be used for carpet bowls, indoor markets or even weddings.
HDT development manager and joint general manager Carolyn Powell took questions from one of several groups who enjoyed a tour of the refurbished building during Hairst day (Saturday, September 2)
“Obviously it has been a long journey, but a lot of things have happened in that time," she said.
“And there is still lots to be done and there is money to be raised.
“It could be open in the spring of next year.
“The very first job will be advertised at the beginning of next year, for our business manager."
