The Cairngorms National Park Authority  has called Grantown-on-Spey home since the organisation’s inception some 11 years ago. Based in the town’s historic Square, the CNPA is delighted to be part of the Grantown 250 celebrations with an event on Thursday 25th June titled ‘Historic Planned Towns: Now and the Future’, 6-8pm, in the Grant Arms Hotel.

Two prominent speakers from the Scottish architecture and design scene will be sharing their thoughts and professional experiences. Andrew Wright, a chartered architect and heritage consultant, will outline the historic design of planned towns in Scotland and what can be done today to conserve and enhance them through good planning and new development.

Also, Professor Gokay Devici, of Scott Sutherland School of Architecture, Robert Gordon University will be there to talk about affordable and sustainable low energy housing, looking at creating places and communities for the future through good design for everyday lives.

Murray Ferguson, the CNPA’s Head of Planning & Rural Development said: “The Cairngorms National Park is the UK’s largest and covers 4,528sq km and at that size, we have a real variety of towns and villages scattered within our landscapes. As the planning authority it makes our job both challenging and interesting.

“We’re very excited about our Grantown 250 event and think that by looking at the past, we can plan for the future. 2016 is Scotland’s Year of Innovation, Architecture and Design so also at our event; we’ll be outlining plans for the return of the CNPA Design Awards for next year.”

To register your place click here on this free event, click here or for more information email gavinmiles@cairngorms.co.uk