Ross-shire couple unveil new pub plan
A YOUNG Strathpeffer couple have revealed plans to convert a landmark building in the spa village into a pub with an authentic Victorian feel.
The Sheiling, a former woollen and tweed shop, has stood empty in the historic village’s square for several years.
But now Fraser (32) and Carol (29) Mackenzie hope to give the characteristic wooden building a new lease of life by turning it into a place both visitors and locals can enjoy.
Their vision is to refurbish and extend The Shieling while retaining its distinctive features which have been part of the Victorian village for decades.
The pair are now poised to submit a planning application to Highland Council for the proposed development, which they call the Mackenzie Public House Project.
Mr Mackenzie, who works in the construction industry, explained: "Because we have both been brought up in the village we have a kind of love for this iconic building. It’s been there since I was a kid but it has a history which goes much further back than that.
"We have been working on this project for about a year-and-a-half and feel we are now ready to take it to the planning application stage.
"Our architect has put a lot of work into the design which involves building another turreted extension as well as toilets at the back, to double the size of the existing building.
"We are delighted that we have the support of Strathpeffer Community Council for our plan and the village seems to be behind it.
"It’s been empty for a few years and the fear is that if it’s left for another two or three years it might not last. It would be lovely to save this building for Strathpeffer while at the same time providing a local service which would also add to facilities for tourists."
With the Mackenzie clan seat just a couple of miles down the road at Castle Leod, he added they would aim to provide a welcome for Mackenzies and other tourists from all over the world, but local trade would be top priority.
"There are several pubs attached to hotels in Strathpeffer but, if we are successful with planning, this would be the only independent pub in the village," said Mr Mackenzie.
You can check out Fraser and Carol’s plans for The Shieling on the project’s Facebook page: www.facebook.com/mackenziepublichouse
