Work to transform Forres’ Victoria Hotel into Veterans centre to begin next week
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WORK to transform the Victoria Hotel in Forres into a Veterans centre is set to begin next week.
The building will become the Erskine Veterans Activity Centre (EVAC) and will act as a hub of activity and support for Veterans and their families.
Construction on the building, which will be led by Simpson Builders, will begin on May 15 and is expected to be completed within 20 weeks.
The project will modernise the building ensuring that it will remain a cornerstone of the Veteran community in the years to come.
Wing Commander Ian Cumming MBE, Chief Executive at Erskine, said: "We are incredibly excited to begin this transformation.
“The establishment of the Veterans Activity Centre is part of our ongoing commitment to supporting Veterans and their families.
“We believe that providing a dedicated space for Veterans to come together, access support services, and engage in various activities will greatly benefit the surrounding community and honour the sacrifices made by those who have served our country.
“We are committed to minimising the impact of construction and are grateful for the community's continued support and understanding."
The existing hotel car park will close from May 14 to allow for the installation of scaffolding.
Work will take place from 8am to 5pm from Monday to Friday and from 8am to 1pm on Saturdays.
And in order to complete the project within 20 weeks, Erskine is seeking permission to extend the work into bank holidays.
Local residents will receive a letter detailing the works this week.
The charity says that the facility will be modelled on its centre in Renfrewshire which enables attendees to enjoy sports, music, films and other activities.
Erskine also confirmed earlier this year that it will partner with the Leanchoil Trust to transform the former Leanchoil Hospital on St Leonard’s Road into a community hub, Veterans centre and affordable housing project in 2027.
Veterans interested in joining the centre can contact Debs Dickson at debra.dickson@erskine.org.uk or visit www.erskine.org.uk.
