DOORS OPEN DAYS have already proven to be a successful means to promoting buildings of historical, architectural or cultural interest in Moray.
Now Moray Council is calling on owners of such buildings that are currently not generally accessible to the public to take part in the next open doors event later this year.
Launched in Glasgow 26 years ago, such was the success of the scheme that the Scottish Civic Trust sought to give it a wider promotion around the country.
When an Open Doors Day was held in Lossiemouth in September 2014 it was declared an unqualified success, with several buildings fully booked throughout the day. These included the Covesea Lighthouse who conducted guided tours and the home of former UK Prime Minister Ramsay Macdonald where his daughter, Iona Keilhorn, showed members of the public around the premises.
This year’s Open Doors Day will be held on September 17 and the local authority is proposing to produce a promotional leaflet detailing the building involved.
Coordinating the 2016 event is heritage and tourism officer Liz Trevethick and conservation regeneration scheme officer Kirsty Conti.
Liz said: “This is such a good opportunity to explore some of the great buildings we have on our doorstep which we don’t normally have access to.
“Doors Open Day can be a good way for owners to reach out to the local community, publicise a project or even increase membership of their organisation. Entry must be free on the day but there is also the opportunity to accept donations.”
Buildings which are normally open to the public – but which wish to put on a special event to coincide with Doors Open Day – can also take part.
Any owners or managers of buildings who would like to become involved should call Liz or Kirsty on 01343 563151 or e-mail admin.devservs@moray.gov.uk by April 22.