Project Title

Estimated Cost

£500k (Aberlour)

£tbc (Rothes)

Leisure and Healthy Living Contribution

£100,000 (Aberlour)

£100,000 (Rothes)

Project Description

Present Status

This initiative has eventually evolved into two separate projects largely due partly to the failure to secure match funding for the original proposal and partly due to the flood alleviation proposal.

The development of a synthetic turf pitch, flood lighting and improvements for changing accommodation was recently agreed as part of the School Estate Capital Programme for Speyside HS (Aberlour). It is anticipated that this project will be completed by 2009 and will be of significant benefit for both Aberlour and Rothes communities.

For Rothes, the implications of the proposed flood alleviation measures will mean that the proposed site for the synthetic turf pitch, adjacent to Rothes FC, is likely to be sold as part of the preventive measures. Selling this ground, which is owned by Rothes FC, could be used to support the upgrading of the Rothes FC Football Stadium. The flood alleviation measures are also likely to impact on the neighbouring grass pitch and play park.

Next Steps

The Leisure and Healthy Living Project Officer and the Local Neighbourhood Support Worker are to meet with Trust members to outline a community consultation proposal where the loss of recreational facilities in Rothes could be addressed. The Trust could play a central role in this consultation and help to secure future funding.

In terms of the synthetic turf pitch at Aberlour, meetings will be held for the purpose of generating architectural sketches and detailed costing. An application for match funding to the Sports Lottery will also be made.

Anticipated Completion Date