Snap-shot of history to be preserved for future generations

A building of significant cultural heritage to the Cairngorms National Park is to be restored after getting Listed Building consent.

The approval was given by the Cairngorm National Park Authority (CNPA) Planning Committee, meeting today (Friday 3 February 2012) in Boat of Garten.

The 19th century Tomintoul Croft house near Braemar was given category A Listed Building status in August 2011. Work can now begin to restore the rundown croft house which has many original features inside that are well preserved and largely unaltered including the hanging ‘lum’ box beds and woodwork.

One of the most interesting features of the building is the newspapers that have over the years been used as wallpaper in the upstairs room.

Planning Officer Robert Grant said: “Receiving category A Listed Building status shows just how important this building is to the cultural heritage of the National Park and the country. This is a rare example of a crofting cottage, one with very well preserved features, and we are fortunate to have such a positive proposal to restore it.”

The owners bought the croft with planning permission to build an extension and alter the internal layout. But to preserve the croft house, they decided to apply for permission to build a separate house on the land. This was approved by the CNPA Planning Committee in May 2011 on the condition the croft house be faithfully restored and Listed Building status applied for.

Today, the Planning Committee also approved alterations to the original permission to site the house further away from the croft and restore the steading which sits between the properties. This was on the advice of Historic Scotland, the steading acting as a buffer between old and new.

CNPA Deputy Convener, Brian Wood, said: “The owners should be congratulated for having the insight to restore and protect this building which has a story of its own to tell. Today’s application shows their commitment to getting this right, listening to advice and approaching the build of their own house as well as the restoration of the croft with great sensitivity.

“I’m also encouraged by the applicants’ willingness for the croft house to be at times opened to the public so they can see and experience its rich heritage.”