People living in a coastal community are being asked for their views on the future of a historic glasshouse.
The 19th century B-listed building in Airlie Gardens, Banff, was originally part of Duff House.
It was used to grow grapes and was gifted to the town along with the gardens it sits in by the Duff family.
The Vinery, as it is known, has lain empty for a number of years, but it is hoped the structure can be given a bright future again.
Council bosses are working on a funding bid to be submitted next month to bring the structure back into use and have turned to Banff residents for their ideas.
Before the local authority can apply for a grant they need to know what it could be used for in the years ahead.
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The Vinery’s future use needs to meet four key goals. These include improving access to local jobs, improving physical and mental health, increasing opportunities for people and encouraging tourism.
A consultation has been launched for individuals, charities or other organisations to submit their suggestions.
Councillor Andy Kille, chairman of the Banff and Buchan area committee, said it is was important that people living in the town were involved.
He said: “Involving the local community in the future direction for the Vinery building in Banff is important, to see the building appreciated and well used locally, contributing to ongoing regeneration efforts.
“Improving opportunities for employment is very important in this area and I welcome that being a key objective for the space, as well as the aim of bringing people closer together.”
Banff councillor Michael Roy said the project could be as successful as the town’s silversmith school.
He said: “The building has been in a poor state of repair for a number of years, and I welcome this funding application to aid its restoration.
“By consulting locally we will help to ensure this becomes an asset local people can be proud of, like the newly restored Smiddy building in the town.
“I’d encourage as many people as possible to have a think about ways they’d like to see the buildings used and take part in the consultation.”
Anyone with ideas for the future of the Vinery can take part in the consultation by visiting
http://bit.ly/2Qp98g8
