Community / Warning ‘great asset’ Voxter could be lost without major cash injection
A FUNDRAISING campaign has been launched to raise £35,000 for “essential works” to Voxter House in the North Mainland – with a warning that the community “stands to lose a great asset” without it.
Voxter, which sits just outside Brae, is a popular space for large groups looking for a place to stay in Shetland, and has been hired out in recent times for events like weddings and birthdays.
The historic building was passed onto the people of Shetland by previous owner Robbie Hughson, having previously been used as a Church of Scotland manse and a glebe.
New Voxter House Trust chairman George Sloan said the committee had been left in the “very difficult position” of needing a lot of work to the B-listed building.
Sloan said that “major changes” were needed at both the centre itself and what it offers the community if it is to continue.
Works to ensure the safety and comfort of the historic building are approaching £100,000, he said, money which the trust “simply does not have”.
“We realise that the centre means a lot to those who have stayed there and it has provided a base from which many in Shetland have been able to explore our unique environment,” he told Shetland News.
“In order to continue inspiring young people to engage with our local surroundings we need to carry out some major work to the category B listed building to ensure the continuing safety and comfort of our guests and better allow us to provide opportunities for the community.
“Without these essential works the community stands to lose a great asset.”
Sloan took on the job as Voxter House Trust chairman after reading a previous appeal for someone to lead the committee on Shetland News in February.
Voxter chairman steps down with ‘heavy heart’ as new blood sought to keep facility running
He said while he was proud that Voxter was “entering a phase of change and renovation”, that would come at a cost.
“We understand that our accommodation and facilities could do with a revamp to improve standards and provide an even better stay for our guests,” he said, adding: “Along with a few smaller maintenance tasks to take us to the level of proactive maintenance rather than short term solutions that cost more in the long-term.”
Voxter House Trust has relaunched a JustGiving page to try to raise £35,000 for the essential works to take place.
The new chairman said people “will see a lot of change” at Voxter over the coming months, with a “focus on wellbeing”.
Sloan said there would be a programme of activities for young people and the wider community being announced shortly.
“These are on top of our commitment to providing excellent residential facilities for school trips and youth groups,” he added.
“You will be able to follow our progress step by step on our socials to see how your money is making a difference.
“You can also join us as a volunteer if you have the time and any skills you feel could help us out, or just want something to do.”
Sloan added that Voxter House Trust is also looking for corporate partners who may be interested in coming onboard to help financially.
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