Today will see running of the historic Strathpeffer Pavilion being passed to High Life Highland (HLH), the Council’s Arms-Length Culture and Leisure Charity following recent discussions between The Highland Council, the building’s owners Scottish Historic Buildings Trust (SHBT) and HLH. The three year agreement between the parties involved is designed to give the local community time to prepare a bid to purchase the much loved Victorian icon.
Speaking as HLH prepared for the change Ian Murray, Chief Executive said, “I am very pleased that HLH has been asked to become involved in operating such an historic and important venue.
“I am glad that the agreement gives certainty to the many people with existing bookings at the Pavilion. The uncertainty over the past few months has been very worrying for those with weddings planned at the venue, as well as for promoters of events and concerts.
Explaining HLH’s plans for the facility Mr Murray went on, “Initially, we will concentrating on making sure that existing bookings are honoured and over time we hope to then develop the programme as finances allow. A great deal of work has been undertaken over the last two weeks in consultation with the existing voluntary Pavilion Trustees and staff in order to ensure as smooth a transfer as possible.
“The HLH team is making contact with all the bookings over the first few weeks just to confirm their requirements and offer some further reassurances.
“We will also be working with the Community Council supported by Council officers, to help where we can to establish a local group to lead the campaign to secure ownership of the Pavilion for the community.
Paying tribute to the outgoing operators, the HLH Chief Executive concluded, “The outgoing voluntary Strathpeffer Pavilion Association and their supporters through the Friends of the Pavilion have done a great job over the last decade in offering a wide ranging programme, improving as well as maintaining the Pavilion as a much-loved community facility.
In the meantime, if customers’ existing or new, have any queries they can continue to call the pavilion on 01997 420124 or email on [email protected].
