Planning boost for nature classes venture

Efforts to transform an abandoned stable in Moray into an outdoor classroom have moved a step closer to reality.

Friends of Blairs Loch has already restored a dilapidated boat shed at the beauty spot on the Altyre Estate, south of Forres.

Now the c h a r i ty has secured planning permission to tear down a 19th Century former pony shed to make way for a similar but more modern structure.

Campaigners hope the 36-capacity building will be used as a classroom for pupils to save them longer journeys to learn

“Thisis fantasticnews forus... areal boost”

about nature – as well as a meeting space for other interested groups.

Tr u s t e e Mike Sutherland said: “This is fantastic news for us.

“Having the plans approved for the next development is a real boost for the group.”

Other work done by the group recently at the Loch of Blairs includes extending footpaths around the water, erecting picnic tables and building a bridge to an island where a bird hide has been built.

The charity is raising funds for the classroom project, which will cost about £125,000.

Tr e a s u r e r Brian Higgs said: “We have pledges for funding from the Scottish Landfill Community Fund, the Berry Burn community fund and are awaiting confirmation from another funding body whose pledge will take us up to £80,000.

“We still have a way to go with the fundraising but the announcement that we h av e full planning approval is a big step for us.”