An ambitious proposal to convert a north-east toilet block into a writing studio has been lodged with Aberdeenshire Council.
Banff and Macduff Community Council made the bid on behalf of Creative Banff to give the toilet block, on the town’s Castle Street, a new lease of life.
The facility was originally closed 15 years ago.
But now, if approved, the three-toilet facility will be gutted to become a base for visiting authors.
Local man Julian Watson is leading the scheme.
Last night, he said it was hoped the studio would become self-sufficient.
“The idea originally, when we started, was to have more toilet facilities for events at Banff Castle,” he added.
“But what we’ve decided to do is to just increase the number of toilets at the castle. It’s more central. Now we’re looking to make the toilet block a writing studio.”
The scheme will be based on Glasgows’s Wasps Studios, which allows artists to rent spaces for short stays.
Mr Watson said: “The idea is to let it to writers on a monthly basis for 10 months of the year. Then, over two months, bring in writers-in-residence to work with the local community.
“Hopefully it will be more or less self funding once its set up.”
Banff firm Mantell Ritchie has submitted the plans on behalf of the community group.
It details that the building will be finished to match a nearby cafe to blend into the existing environment.
A lounge, kitchenette, wet room and single bedroom will also be created.
The scheme follows on from Creative Banff’s efforts to return silversmithing to the port.
The group’s vision for the town could create a “cluster” of arts services.
“It’s been a long coming through, but it’s slowly getting there,” Mr Watson said.
“It’s another little bit of the jigsaw in Banff’s regeneration.”
