Community efforts to acquire and redevelop the site of the fire-ravaged Spittal of Glenshee Hotel continue to gather pace.
A grant of £10,000 has been received from the Big Lottery Investing in Ideas Fund towards the £20,000 cost of a feasibility study and business plan for the proposed site.
This follows a grant of £5,000 from Perth and Kinross Council.
Tony Thompson, chairman of the project steering group, said the funding programme is really positive news.
“This shows the confidence of both the Big Lottery and the council in supporting our local community as we work to find a long-term solution for the site, which focuses on regenerating tourism in the area and providing much need community and visitor facilities,” he said.
Members of the steering group have met councillors, politicians and representatives of the Scottish Land Fund, Cairngorms National Park Authority and Perth and Kinross Council in a bid to move forward with the proposal for the site.
Philip Smith, of the Glenshee Tourist Association, said: “The initial phase of the project is moving ahead as planned, but we also need to look at how we can raise match-funding for future grant applications.
“Three events are being organised and we would encourage everyone with a connection to the area, a fond memory of the Spittal Hotel or who just fancies a good night out to support us.”
These events include a bingo tea on Saturday April 25 at 7pm, a Call my Bluff wine tasting evening on Saturday May 9 at 7.30pm and a summer tartan ball on Saturday June 13 at 7pm.
For more information phone 01250 885264.