Heritage centre and cafe at Ardersier Port could be replaced by smaller heritage feature as Haventus seeks planning change
Plans to build a new heritage centre with cafe at Ardersier Port may not go ahead as developers are seeking a change in the agreed planning.
An application for the development at Ardersier Port, which included a new gateway entrance with a heritage centre focusing on McDermott’s history, as well as a roundabout and a new bus stop, was approved towards the end of 2023.
However, according to a new application, these plans were submitted prior to the present owners, Haventus, taking control of the site.
In the new submission, the developer is seeking to replace the heritage centre and cafe with a “purpose-designed new feature” at the gateway to the port, honouring the heritage of the site and its operation under McDermotts.
In the new statement they said: “A recent review of the proposed Heritage Centre facility, alongside detailed discussion with local community representatives, most particularly via the Community Liaison Group which was established very soon after Haventus acquired the port facility, have identified that a range of alternative options may better serve the wider community and avoid duplicating café facilities that exist within surrounding villages and towns.
“(The new feature) comprises of a series of individual plaques set within a walled area that also incorporates a seating area and a cairn commemorating those who lost their lives during operations in the site’s days as an oil and gas fabrication yard.”
Changes would also see a reduced parking area, however the access road is set to be retained in its present layout with approved upgraded access arrangements.
The heritage feature would include a “series of plaques enclosed within a boundary ‘dyke’ comprised of natural stone” including a seating area.
It described: “The four individual plaques will describe the history of the site, with reference to McDermotts, and will include a viewfinder to enable identification of the surrounding area.
“There will also be a digital link, with visitors signposted to a website (currently under development), which will provide more information on the McDermott yard’s contribution to Scotland’s energy sector.
“The design and layout has evolved after discussion with former employees at the port who have been seeking a suitable location for the Heritage feature for some considerable time, in order to establish a fitting commemoration of both the history and future development of the site.
“This amended layout will finally meet their needs, providing a permanent feature which will be accessible to the public and will be independent of the port operations.”
The new proposal will be under consultation until Thursday, October 24. No objections have been raised at the time of writing.
