Next steps for hotel
Plans have been submitted to Perth and Kinross Council for the next stage of Crieff’s Drummond Arms project.
Drummond Arms Regeneration Limited (DARL) was set up in 2019 by Crieff Community Trust to facilitate the regeneration of the former hotel in James Square, which is now owned by the community.
It’s first objective, which has been carried out, was to make the building safe, secure and give it a more presentable facade.
And now applications have been submitted to the local authority with a view to beginning work at the rear of the iconic structure, as well as to remove asbestos and strip-out the inside of the main building.
David McCann, chair of DARL, told the Herald: “Along with many other similar projects, the current pandemic has created difficulties for us in maintaining our planned schedule, both in terms of funding applications and practical development.
“However, we have been determined to continue to pursue our aim of ensuring that this site has a sustainable future that will complement the longterm strategy for the future of Crieff town centre.
“And so, as part of this plan, we have now submitted planning and building applications to begin work, hopefully in late March, which will involve full asbestos removal and an internal strip-out of the main building as well as the complete removal of the outbuildings – known as the staff quarters and garage.
“Re-pointing work and repairs will also be carried out to the boundary walls.”
Subject to approval by the local authority, removal of the outbuildings will free- up space that could be used for community events while the future of the main building is being secured.
DARL is working with local partners with a view to developing the Drummond into creative workshop spaces with retail and exhibition opportunities.
Affordable hostel- style accommodation is also being looked at as part of the revamp.
All bases are being covered and the building is also being marketed to private investors due to the scale of the undertaking.
Mr McCann continued: “These initial works will also have the added bonus of opening up the rear carpark site, potentially, for ‘pop- up’ community activities.
“Thereafter, once the situation allows, we will begin the process of submitting further funding applications to support the incredibly exciting vision for the site as a centre of excellence for artisans and creatives.
“This has been a long and tough journey, with hurdles we could never have foreseen.
“However, it will be encouraging to see work start again and our development schedule get back on track.”
• For more information on DARL , including how to get involved, see www.drummondarmsregenerationlimited.com.