New Banff cadet building installed

Highland RFCA’s new £400,000 cadet hut has been successfully installed in the Aberdeenshire town of Banff.

The building was lifted into place by a crane in five sections over the space of just five hours on 15 February.

The sections are manufactured off site and the building should be ready for occupation in approximately one month’s time. The modern, energy efficient design replaces the old Spooner huts that have passed the point of economical repair.

The building was designed to the specifications of the Army Cadet Force (ACF) and Highland RFCA by JAMstudio in Aberdeen and built and installed by Healthmatic Ltd. Macduff Crane Hire took care of the heavy lifting on the day.

The design features a drill hall, two classrooms, an office, kitchen, store and toilets.

The second section is swung into place ready to be lowered and bolted into the first section. — The second section of the building is swung into place ready to be lowered and attached to the first section.

It forms part of Highland RFCA’s £1.4 million programme of cadet building replacements and follows similar builds in Newport and Bo’ness. A further installation will take place in Mastrick, Aberdeen, this summer.

The Banff facility will be used by cadets from 2nd Battalion The Highlanders ACF.

Another section being bolted into place.

Cadets and Adult Volunteers from Banff Detachment had been travelling to Portsoy, sharing resources with the Portsoy Detachment whilst the demolition of the old building and the construction of the new building was completed.

The final section is reversed into position, ready to be lifted into place by the crane.

Major Stuart Eddie, Cadet Executive Officer for 2nd Battalion The Highlanders, said: “This is an important new lease of life for the Army Cadets in Banff, with a fantastic new building designed and built to the needs of the cadets and a world away from the building it replaces.

“It is in a prime site in the heart of the town. This is a boost for the community and highlights the importance placed on providing youngsters aged between 12 and 18 opportunities to learn skills, have adventure, form new friendships and have great fun.

“The ACF has a Diversity and Inclusion ethos and our doors, particularly the doors of this new facility, are open to all youngsters, regardless of background or ability. They just need an enthusiasm to learn, take part, have a go and enjoy.”