The Budge Foundation donates £21,500 towards The Findhorn Village Conservation Company's refurbishment of back shore steps
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A LOCAL infrastructure project has received a five-figure boost from a generous couple.
Aberdeen residents Bill and Lorraine Budge have granted The Findhorn Village Conservation Company (TFVCC) £21,500 towards renewal of the beach steps to the back shore.
Co-founder of the Budge Foundation, Bill Budge, said: “We are conscious that the state of the steps presents health and safety issues, and prevents ready access to the beach. We approached TFVCC in September, expressing our willingness to assist in funding repairs. We are delighted that work has now commenced and wish TFVCC every success in raising the additional funds.”
The 39 Engineer Regiment, based at Kinloss Barracks, have repaired two sets of steps. Working alongside army personnel, local joiner Jason Brodie and Aaron’s Groundworks, they have started work on the other six sets of steps. Locally sourced wood from Logie Timber is being used and it is estimated that it will take around 10 weeks to complete. TFVCC has been raising funds for work on all eight sets of beach steps. Over £50,000 is required to renew the steps and ensure safe access to the beach. An additional £30,000 is needed to fund replacement of the boardwalks.
TFVCC chairwoman, Christine Hunt, is grateful for the support from The Budge Foundation.
She said: “The donation covers 50 per cent of the cost of renovating all eight sets. A condition is that TFVCC matches that amount.”
A donation of £10,000 has been promised by the Gordon and Ena Baxter Foundation, with more from individuals.
Christine added: “We would really like to complete the full project this year. If you are a walker, swimmer, kite surfer, yoga enthusiast or just enjoy the view, the Findhorn Back Beach is one of the loveliest in Scotland.”
To make a donation visit https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/Findhornbeachsteps#:~:text=The%20beach%20steps%20provide%20safe,towards%20this%20very%20worthwhile%20project.
