Award to mark station’s revival revealed

A coveted railway heritage award has been unveiled at Ballater Old Royal Station following an 18-month delay due to Covid.

Aberdeenshire Council received the South Eastern Commercial Restoration Award from The Princess Royal in December 2019 for the £4.2 million of work completed to revive the building.

The B-listed station was destroyed by a fire in May 2015 and reopened in August 2018 following restoration works by the council and its partners.

Judges of the award, including Gregory Beecroft and Edward McGloin, said the reconstruction was “most praiseworthy” and singled out the council’s determination to complete the works to a high standard.

Mr Beecroft said: “Although there was an insurance payout, that was not adequate to cover all of the work, so the resolve to restore the building at a time when there are severe constraints on council expenditure was particularly commendable.”

Mr McGloin added: “On the day of my visit, the station had a vibrant feel and was busy throughout.

“It is great to see that four years on from the devastating fire the station is again at the centre of Ballater and its community.

“Well done to all involved in this very good restoration of this historic station.”

The station was historically used by the royal family when they were travelling to Balmoral Castle and the royal waiting room has now been transformed into a private dining room.

The judges described this space as a “jewel in the crown” and “an astonishing display of craftsmanship”.