Community / Redevelopment of Sail Loft looking viable as feasibility study nears end
THE POTENTIAL redevelopment of the vacant Sail Loft building in Voe looks like it could be a viable project to take forward.
A feasibility study commissioned by the Voe Community Development Association (VCDA), which includes a business plan, is almost complete.
VCDA co-secretary Peter Johnson said the group is also making early enquiries into various possible funding sources for design, construction and start-up costs.
The historic B-listed Sail Loft building is owned by Shetland Amenity Trust, and more recently it has been used for basic böd accommodation.
However, it has not been open since 2019.
Johnson said a number of possible uses are in the mix when thinking about how the building could be redeveloped.
“We envisage a mixed use development comprising a heritage/ community history centre with exhibition/display space and sales of local arts, crafts and knitwear, backpacker accommodation for up to eight or nine people, a basic cafe – possibly self-service – serving hot and cold drinks with products from local suppliers, and shower and toilet facilities,” he said.
“There is also a basement which would most likely be used for repairs and maintenance in relation to the adjacent pier and marina.”
The building, in Lower Voe, dates back to the mid 19th/early 20th Century, and it was originally used for fish curing.
It was then used a sail loft, a knitwear factory and then backpacker accommodation.
VCDA was previously awarded funding by the Scottish Land Fund and the Architectural Heritage Fund for the feasibility study and business plan.
Become a member of Shetland News
Shetland News is asking its readers to consider paying for membership to get additional perks:
- Removal of third-party ads;
- Bookmark posts to read later;
- Exclusive curated weekly newsletter;
- Hide membership messages;
- Comments open for discussion.
If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a member of Shetland News by either making a single payment, or setting up a monthly, quarterly or yearly subscription.
Already a member? Sign in to hide this message.
