Volunteers sought to help bothy revamp
The Mountain Bothy Association (MBA) is seeking the building skills of people in Mid Argyll
Even those who do not have any specialism in construction are being invited to help out on a bothy build between Lochgilphead and Oban.
The renovation of the disused building, Druimnashallag, between the two Argyll towns has been licensed to the MBA by land manager Forestry and Land Scotland’s (FLS) west region team.
Built in 1891, but last occupied around 70 years ago, it was slowly falling into ruin facing the threat of demolition - until its potential as a bothy was spotted by the FLS.
Raymond Mundie, FLS’s area land agent, said: “Until recently it had been hidden away in the middle of a forest but recent felling work opened up the ground to the north and led to the building’s ‘rediscovery’.
“It’s a fairly characterful old building and although it hasn’t been used in decades, it was still fairly structurally sound.
“We didn’t see that we could make any use of it and it would have ended up being demolished because it presented a potential risk to members of the public, especially if it was left to fall into further disrepair.”
Peter Rowell from the MBA said: “The walls are mostly in good condition although a couple of sections will need to be rebuilt from new foundations up to the wall heads.
“A new roof, floor, windows and door will be installed before the internal conversion can begin.
“The plan is to have two internal rooms, each with an open fire and sleeping platform, a central porch and a separate byre for firewood, bicycles etc.
“We expect to begin work in the spring but it is a phased project over two years and we will be looking to have 10 or 12 volunteers at any one time to help out over that time, even for a few days or maybe a week or two at a time.
“Anyone with construction skills or basic DIY would be great but even if you have no skills of this type - yet – we will still be able to put you to good use.”
Mr Rowell continued: “It’s a bit out of the way, as you would expect for a bothy. The nearest shop is seven miles away, mobile phone reception isn’t great and there is no telling what the weather will be like, but if this sounds like your ideal project, get in touch.”
The byre roof will also be designed and constructed to encourage bats and owls to take up residence, while camping spaces, a toilet and shower will be built, as well as a small canteen to offer basic refreshments for volunteers.
Anyone who is keen to find out more and potentially sign up to lend a hand should contact p.c.rowell@btinternet.com for a copy of the latest volunteer brief containing more details on the project.
For more details for the dates and details during the construction phase visit the MBA website: www.mountainbothies.org.uk.