The redevelopment of a historic north-east railway station destroyed in a fire has been awarded a grant of more than £100,000 by Historic Environment Scotland (HES).
The Old Ballater Railway Station was destroyed in a huge blaze in May 2015.
Now HES is to award £107,500 to help repair the historic royal waiting room as part of its Building Repair Grants scheme.
The old station had been the final stopping point for members of the Royal Family heading to Balmoral.
Thomas Knowles, Head of Grants at Historic Environment Scotland, said: “We’re pleased to support Aberdeenshire Council in their project to repair and restore the Royal Waiting Room in the former Ballater Railway station.
“The money will allow them to repair the interior, which helps bring the building to life for visitors and creates work for local craftspeople.”
The council plans to commission specialists conservators to recreate the ornate interior of the Category B listed building, including swan-necked iron lamps and stained glass windows.
Councillor Moira Ingleby, Chair of the Marr area committee, said: “This is great news for Ballater Station. The Royal waiting room is a significant part of the overall project and the grant money from Historic Environment Scotland will ensure that the restoration is carried out in the best and most sympathetic way.
“The station has long been an integral part of Ballater and its destruction by fire has had a marked effect on the life of the village. It is both a significant tourist attraction and a vital piece of local history.”
