Dear Leanchoil Members,
As Autumn colours arrive, the pace at Leanchoil does not slow down and I am delighted to share with you the update from the past few months. There is much to do!
On the Leanchoil site, those of you who live locally will have noticed increased activity as our architects LDN have been supervising several surveys of the main building to prepare for internal works. The structure of Leanchoil is generally well preserved considering its age but some timber rot has been discovered. We have been pleased to start using the Lodge for meetings. The former maternity unit (Osprey Wing) sold to Hanover Scotland will have its asbestos removal works commence in early in 2027. We have regular update meetings with Hanover who have been excellent partners in our venture to return Leanchoil to a modernized, health-centred locus for the Forres and district community.
There was a great feeling of community as a willing group of volunteers met in August to clear the Leanchoil centre of debris and unwanted rubbish. Thanks go to our volunteer coordinator Michelle for organising the day with the able help of Trustee Mark. Thanks are also due to her for working with Rafford Hall to deliver a very successful coffee morning on 19th September. The Rafford home bakers produced a magnificent spread, while Maclean’s Bakery again supplied delicious rolls to partner with Murdoch’s bacon for our supportive, hungry attendees!
At the AGM in late September, we had an encouraging turnout of members who approved Leanchoil Trustees’ proposal to change the constitution and confirm the appointment of Euan Duncan as a new trustee. Euan is a highly successful lawyer who was born in Leanchoil and who, with his mother and sister living locally, is keen to do what he can to help deliver on our aims for the site. Also new to the team is Vicki Quinlan, who joins us full time from this month as Leanchoil Trust’s new Development Officer. Vicki’s background with the military and Boeing – as well as being a ‘Leanchoil baby’ – makes her an ideal person for the role.
Three trustees, along with LDN architects, met with the National Lottery Heritage Fund (NLHF) team in Edinburgh on 1st October to present our current plans and business proposal. This is prior to the NLHF considering further our application for their next funding round. We hope to be able to update you on this and the Regeneration Capital Grant Fund (RCGF) application in the next newsletter. Meantime, fundraising activities continue and we are very appreciative of the generosity shown by recent donors who are supportive of Leanchoil Trust.
We will be organising further community and partner events, the first being a coffee morning at Moravia on 14th November. We hope to see you there.
Thank you and warm regards,
Marianne Nicolson,
Chair, Leanchoil Trust