Change of use application lodged for historic Traill Hall in Castletown
A PLAN to transform a 19th century B-listed property in Castletown into a family home has taken a step forward with a change of use application being lodged with Highland Council.
Juliette and Ian Currums bought the Traill Hall for £42,000 and have carried out initial work to make the building wind and watertight.
The couple, who ran a pub in Oxfordshire, intend to turn the empty premises into a home for them and their two children, Charlie and Oliver.
In a document which accompanied the application, the Currums said they are passionate about preserving the history of the property and preventing any further deterioration to the hall which was bequeathed to the people of Castletown in 1866 by Margaret Traill – the daughter of Sheriff James Traill who founded the local flagstone industry.
The building was a public hall and reading room but over the years was used as a temporary school, canteen, a youth club and latterly as a storage facility for a local business. It became vacant in the 1990’s, was boarded up and has been empty ever since.
Attempts were made by the community to get the hall back into public use but they met with difficulties and it was decided at a public meeting to put the Traill Hall up for sale.
"The main changes we intend to make are with regards providing suitable ventilation and heating in order to make the premises liveable and prevent further damage caused by damp and disrepair. The overall structure of the building is in good condition. Internally, due to leaks in the roof there has been widespread damp and damage to internal plaster and woodwork. The roof has been repaired as an urgent issue and is now in a good state," say the couple who point out the changes would include the creation of a mezzanine and spiral staircase.
"We do not believe that any of the alterations we are making will significantly or negatively impact the appearance of the building but in doing the general repairs and alterations proposed we believe the building will be saved for future generations to enjoy and remain an important building in the heart of Castletown. Allowing for adjustments for modern living will allow the building to be saved and looked after."
The change of use application from commercial to residential was mentioned at last week's meeting of the Castletown and District Community Council. The application is said to be under consideration.
As previously reported, the couple had been looking for a suitable property for a home and when they saw the Traill Hall online they “instantly loved it.”
The cost of the renovation of the hall is expected to be substantial. The Currums have said they want to save as many of the features as they can and stressed repairs will be in keeping with the building's design.
The money from the sale is to go to local organisations and groups in the Castletown area as the hall was left to the village.