A historic Moray landmark will be mothballed by the local authority after attempts to secure its future failed.
The B-listed Keith Institute has occupied a site on Mid Street since 1886, and is beloved by locals as an emblem on the town.
But yesterday, Moray Council’s policy and resources committee voted to formally declare it as surplus to requirements.
The building will now receive only some basic maintenance work to keep it safe, and protect it from wind and water damage.
The council hopes to attract a buyer for the landmark, who can breathe new life into it.
Keith residents had long campaigned for the restoration of the building – and were overjoyed last September when a £166,000 package of improvements was approved.
The council pledged £76,000 towards the project, and a further £90,000 was offered by the Keith Conservation Area Regeneration Scheme (Cars), which is backed by Historic Scotland.
But the ambitious plans fell apart when the locals campaigning for it to be rejuvenated failed to attract any groups willing to take it over after the restoration was carried out.
And without any long-term use identified, Historic Scotland has refused to support the institute’s redevelopment.
Yesterday, Keith and Cullen councillor Gary Coull criticised the heritage body for abandoning the project.
Mr Coull said: “Quite frankly, it’s ridiculous that Historic Scotland has refused to grant money towards this listed building.
“I was wary of withdrawing services from it, and it feels like it’s suffered death by a thousand removals.”
Mr Coull urged officers to take a proactive approach in advertising the building for sale.
Moray Council leader Stewart Cree described the landmark’s decline as “a sign of the times”.
He said: “It is an iconic building in the middle of the town, it can’t just be shut off.”
Last night, Historic Scotland said renewing the institute was not a specific part of its funding agreement with Moray
Council.
A spokesman said: “Officials have had various conversations with the council regarding this building, but the lack of a sustainable end use meant it did not meet the purpose of the Cars funding programme.
“However, we would consider future grant applications for the building, if appropriate.”
The Keith Institute served a variety of purposes during its heyday, and it was used as council offices until 2012.
