Over £4 million put towards renovating abandoned seminary
£4.2 million will be used to repurpose a derelict seminary into an art venue.
The Heritage Lottery Fund and Creative Scotland are putting £4.2 million into turning St Peter’s seminary into an art venue.
The modernist building opened as a training centre for young priests in 1966 – but it closed its doors less than 15 years later.
It has been derelict since then, becoming a victim of the elements and vandalism.
It’s currently the centre-piece for a sold-out art event as part of the Festival or Architecture, and is a key highlight in the Year of Innovation, Architecture and Design.
The makeover will see important parts of the building restored, with others being re-purposed for public events.
The chapel in particular will be converted into a venue for large-scale performances.
Over 200 volunteers are expected to get involved with the project.
Lucy Casot, Head of the Heritage Lottery Fund in Scotland, said: “After 25 years of decline, this ground-breaking project has the potential to save an internationally significant building, exploiting its commanding presence to produce an exceptional arts venue.
“Its appeal will attract new audiences from near and far.
“Its transformed estate will become a natural haven for the local community to explore, enjoy and be proud of.”
Philip Deverell, Director of Stategy at Creative Scotland, said: “The recent success of the Hinterland festival held at St Peter’s highlighted how important the building is to both the people of Scotland and the international architectural community.
“It seems fitting that in this the Year of Innovation, Architecture and Design that we have taken steps to secure the future of this hugely significant building.”