A former book shop damaged in a fire could be brought back to life as part of a £5million regeneration project in Fraserburgh.
Members of the Banff and Buchan area committee yesterday approved plans by Aberdeenshire Council to begin the year-long process of taking on the property rights of the former John Trail bookstore in the port’s Mid Street.
The shop, which had previously been owned by Ian and Jenny Thomson, has lain empty since a fire in 2009.
Companies claiming ownership of the premises have been dissolved.
But yesterday’s decision means the local authority can now take steps to acquire the rights of the building, and bring it back it into use as part of a project to spruce up the town.
It is believed that upon acquiring the building, Aberdeenshire Council could move to hand it over to a third party for restoration.
The former shop could become a bunkhouse or hotel.
Local councillor Ian Tait yesterday suggested it would be an “excellent location” for a visitor information centre.
Councillor Charles Buchan, meanwhile, said it would be ideal as a hotel.
Calling it an “eyesore”, he said: “Something has got to be done about it, the accommodation in Fraserburgh is dire.”
In a report to the committee, Stephen Archer, the council’s director of infrastructure services, said the John Trail building had been highlighted as a “priority project” by local people.
A recent survey of the property concluded that the unlisted building’s upper floors would also be suited for a commercial premises.
Environment officer Deborah Burroughs added that the property could also be used for housing.