Welcome to The Wildside Centre Project page. Each week we intend to give you a regular Thursday update on how projects are progressing. Some weeks there will be lots of activity, others not so much. If you have any questions - or have knowledge and skills you would like to bring to the project please do get in touch with the lead Directors via the button on the right!
Click HERE to book The Wildside Centre!
Latest update 31st October 2024
A lot of work has been going on behind the scenes on some much-needed refurbishments of The Wildside Centre. Plans are being pulled together to upgrade the disabled and ladies’ toilets to ensure that they are fit for purpose, and we have also been looking at ways of making the building more energy efficient by replacing the windows and doors. Sharon has identified funding that is available to assist with improving energy efficiency within community buildings, and this would be a great help in the continuing improvement of this community hub. Further updates on the progress of these will be shared in due course.
If you would like to be involved in the development of The Wildside Centre as a project, please get in touch with Caroline by emailing pc@sfctrust.org.uk
Latest update 10th October 2024
Last week saw the last Soup to Go session at the Wildside Centre. Soup to Go started during Covid to provide a weekly hot meal for the community, and once restrictions lifted, it developed into a sit-down meal every Monday (with a delivery option to those who weren't able to make it in person). Many volunteer hours were spent budgetting, shopping, baking, soup-making, setting up, serving, delivering, entertaining and clearing up. This was an amazing service provided by volunteers for the benefit of the whole community and will be much missed. Thank you to Lyn, Pam, Gillian and their team of helpers for all of your hard work over the years, and enjoy your well-earned rest!
Latest update 26th September 2024
Did you know that you can book The Wildside Centre for Art Exhibitions? You can find out more here!
Latest update 29th August 2024
Caroline, Matt and Sharon met today to move forward with some of the required improvements on the building. We will provide an update on what is planned shortly.
Latest update 4th July 2024
We would be interested to hear from you if you have experience in any of the following as we look to make much-needed improvements to The Wildside Centre:
Plumbing and bathroom fitting
Installation of insulation
Door and window fitting.
You can find more information on what is required by visiting our Contracts for Work page, or by emailing Caroline at pc@sfctrust.org.uk
Latest update 27th June 2024
A lovely afternoon was had by all who attended the Teddy Bear's picnic at Wildside to celebrate the newly completed play area. Thank you to everyone who helped make the afternoon happen.
If you are a local plumber and bathroom fitter, we are looking for someone who can help us upgrade the toilets. Please contact Caroline by emailing pc@sfctrust.org.uk if you would like some more information.
Latest update 20th June 2024.jpg)
We hope to see you at our Playpark opening event on Thursday 27th June! You can find out more about it here.
We are also keen to hear from you if you are an experienced plumber/ bathroom fitter and would be interested in assisting us with the upgrading works of the toilet facilities at Wildside. More information can be found on the Contracts for Work page - Contracts for work
Latest update 30th May 2024
Thank you again for your patience, while we wait for the grass to grow. We are going to give it another two weeks and assess the situation again at this point. The grass is growing...
Latest update 16th May 2024
Please be aware that the new play area is still not open for use. The grass seed is now down, so we are now waiting for this to establish - this will help the safety matting to bed in. Thank you for your patience on this, we are very much looking forward to letting everyone use it!
Latest update 9th May 2024
Please note that the new play area is currently cordoned off while the grass seed establishes under the new equipment. We looking forward to opening it up to the community in the very near future, but please bear with us in the meantime!
If you have been into, or past, Wildside over the last week, you will see that Angus has been very busy with his digger preparing ground for planting wild flower seeds. This small project is being led by the biodiversity group with the aim of both introducing some colour to the grounds, and also encouraging bees, butterflies and other insects. With the new polycrub now in use, an increase in the number of pollinators will have a positive effect on the crops too!
Since purchasing the land at Thain road last summer, the Trust have been working closely with residents there to remove items of risk from the area to help improve the environment. We would like to say thank you to everyone involved in this for their continuing support, and would like to politely ask that any remaining items can be removed as discussed.
Latest update 2nd May 2024
This week the new play equipment has been installed at Wildside, with the contractors due to finish on site today. Please be aware that although the equipment will look very inviting, health & safety checks will need to be completed before access is allowed, so please resist the temptation to use the new play area until it is officially signed off!
We will also be starting some work with the biodiversity group over the next few days to prepare areas of the ground for planting a wild flower meadow - updates on this will follow soon!
Latest update 25th April 2024
This is a reminder that work installing the new play area equipment at Wildside starts next week, so please be aware of extra activity in the grounds and the car park.
There has been lots of activity at the Wildside polycrub over recent weeks - we look forward to seeing the results later in the year!
Latest update 18th April 2024
The new Wildside Centre booking system is now live. You can find out more about it here - 'The Wildside Centre' launches a new booking system!
We also received notification this week that works will begin on installation of the new play area on Monday 29th April. Please be aware of increased activity in the area - this will also have an impact on parking availability, and access to the land at the back of the building will be restricted while works are taking place.
Latest update 28th March 2024
Thank you to everyone who has suggested new names for the main two rooms in Wildside. They have now been shortlisted and we would like you to vote. You can read more on how to do this here.
Yesterday saw our last official 'Warm Wednesday'. Thank you to everyone who popped in and supported this initiative. As a number of our staff use the building on Wednesday morning, we will continue to be 'open' for you to drop in to chat to the team, have a cup of tea or coffee, or find a quiet space to work. The doors will be open between 9am and 12noon, so please do join us.
Latest update 7th March 2024
It was great to see so many people here on Sunday, both to make the most of the wood available and also to find out more about our growing project. You can find out more about both by reading the stories below.
Latest update 29th February 2024
Join us at Wildside on Sunday for the 'Sunday Social' at the polycrub! For more information on what is happening, click here.
We also have a small amount of wood available onsite - please pop down between 12noon and 4pm if you would like some. Please note this is for Stratherrick & Foyers residents only, and the wood is in rounds so will require further processing.
Latest update 22nd February 2024
Warm Wednesday continues at the Wildside Centre, so please do come and make use of this space. On the 6th March we will have both the mobile library and Jane from Lyne Mhor Croft, so put the date in your diary and come and support these two vital services!
Latest update 15th February 2024
Yesterday, Catriona, Caroline and Sarah met to discuss future improvements at The Wildside Centre, and identified short, medium and long-term requirements for the building and surrounding area. We identified priorities, such as replacing the disabled toilet, new windows, and further upgrades to the lights & electrics. We will now begin working on how to take these forward.
In the short-term, work on landscaping the grounds will continue in the Spring, we look forward to welcoming community members to the polycrub on Sunday 3rd March, and we are aiming for the new play area to be in place before the start of the summer holidays. If you have any suggestions on improvements for Wildside or would like to become part of the Wildside steering group, please contact Caroline by emailing pc@sfctrust.org.uk.
Latest update 8th February 2024
On Monday 12th February representatives from the Citizens' Advice Bureau will be doing a talk on energy support and advice before Soup to Go. You can find more information on this here.
We are still running Warm Wednesdays every Wednesday at The Wildside Centre between 9am and 2pm. Please come and make use of this community space - come for a chat and a coffee, or use the quiet space to work or study.
Latest update 1st February 2024
We are very pleased to be able to share the updated plans for the new play area with you - click here to view. If you have any feedback you would like to share, please email it to pc@sfctrust.org.uk.
This morning members of the staff team met with the landscapers to discuss further improvements to the land surrounding the Wildside Centre. We hope to be able to share more information on this with you in due course.
Remember you can join us each Wednesday at Wildside for 'Warm Wednesday'. Next week will be a busy one as we will have both the mobile library and Jane from Lyne Mhor Croft joining us too!
Latest update 18th January 2024
Unfortunately snow prevented us from opening up The Wildside Centre this week for our first Warm Wednesday of 2024 - it will instead return next Wednesday from 9am. Please join us if you can.
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Latest update 11th January 2024
Weekly activities have now returned to The Wildside Centre, please visit the 'What's On' Calendar here to see what you can take part in.
Warm Wednesdays return next week - come along to The Wildside Centre between 9am and 2pm to make use of a warm space either to work or to have a cuppa and a chat!
Latest update 14th December 2023
Thank you to everyone involved in this year's Winter Wonderland - we hope you agree that it was a success! We would love to hear your thoughts on how we can improve for next year; please complete our survey by the 19th December.
A letter has been sent to the residents of Thain Road regarding the removal of hazardous materials as referenced in previous correspondence.
Latest update 7th December 2023
Winter Wonderland 2023 starts tomorrow!
The lights are up, trees are decorated, the kitchen is organised, the presents have been delivered for Santa, and inside is all ready to welcome our traders, community groups, carol singers and of course lots of visitors! We hope to see you there!
Latest update 30th November 2023
We hope to see you at the St Andrew's Night Ceilidh at The Wildside Centre on Saturday, 6.30pm onwards, tickets available at the door. All proceeds go to Stratherrick Parent council. You can find out more here - St Andrews Day Ceilidh
Latest update 23rd November 2023
Wildside is turning festive! The team are working very hard in preparation for Winter Wonderland, so you may notice additional lighting and decorations when you are in the building. You can keep up to date with what is planned for Winter Wonderland on the events page - Winter Wonderland, and make sure you book your Santa's Grotto slot here before bookings close on Sunday!
It is also the Trust's AGM on Wednesday 29th at the Wildside Centre - we hope to see you there.
Latest update 2nd November 2023
Matt and Robbie have made fantastic progress on the polycrub over the last couple of weeks! We will share more information on this project in due course but if you are interested in becoming part of the community growing group please contact sarah@sfctrust.org.uk for more information.
Latest update 19th October 2023
Thank you to everyone who came along to the play park consultation events - we gathered some very useful feedback, which we will use to take the project to the next stage. You can read more here - The play area at Wildside moves a step closer
Latest update 28th September 2023
If you didn't manage to see the plans for the new play area, we are holding two further consultation events at Wildside next week - please come along and let us know what you think.
Latest update 21st September 2023
Remember that you will be able to see a sneak preview of the playpark plans at this Staruday's community catch-up event at Stratherrick Hall.
Latest update 14th September 2023
Last week saw the first of three trial Line dancing classes at the Wildside Centre, with the second one being held tonight - please pop along if you would like to give it a try!
Matt met with a Health and Safety consultant yesterday who will be carrying out a risk assessment on the recently-purchased land adjacent to Wildside.
We now have all three potential designs for our proposed new play area at Wildside. We will be sharing them for comment at the community catch up event at Stratherrick Hall on 23rd September. If you can't make it along on Saturday, we will be holding a coffee morning on Thursday 5th October and a drop in session on Friday 6th October, both at Wildside so please do come and let us know what you think.
Latest update 7th September 2023
The Bring and Buy sale scheduled for Saturday has been cancelled. Thank you to everyone who has been involved in this initiative, which has run throughout the summer months.
Latest update 31st August 2023
If you are interested in having a table at our last Bring & Buy sale for this year (scheduled for Saturday 9th September), please email Tony at tony-ceo@sfctrust.org.uk before 5pm on Monday.
Latest update 17th August 2023
We are pleased to let you know that progress has been made on installing lights in The Wildside Centre. You can read more here.
Residents of Whitebridge should have received a letter this week with regards to the purchase of the land adjacent to Wildside and the requirement to identify ownership of certain items located there. Please contact Tony by emailing tony-ceo@sfctrust.org.uk if you have any information on this.
Last weekend we held our most recent bring and buy sale - thank you to those who attended. More information can be found on this here.
Caroline met with another of the potential suppliers for the new play area this week. We hope to have three designs to share with the community soon.
Latest update 27th July 2023
We received news this week that our planning application for the proposed play area behind The Wildside Centre has been approved.
Our next Bring and Buy sale is due to be held on Saturday 12th August - please come and join us and grab a bargain!
Lastest update 29th June 2023
Please come along to our second Bring and Buy sale at the Wildside Centre next Saturday and grab some bargains! Find out more here - OUR NEXT BRING & BUY SALE! | 27 June 2023 | Stratherrick & Foyers Community Trust (stratherrickcommunity.org.uk)
Latest update 22nd June 2023
We have identified some housekeeping issues that we are working our way through. Remember, if you spot something within the building or the grounds of Wildside that you are concerned about, please report it in the book located on the table at the entrance, and we will take appropriate action as soon as we are able.
Latest update 15th June 2023
Thank you to everyone who came along to the car boot sale on Saturday, the next one is scheduled for the 8th July. If you would like a table please contact Tony by emailing tony-ceo@sfctrust.org.uk.
We are also pleased to update you that the purchase of the land alongside The Wildside Centre has now gone through.
Latest update 8th June 2023
Unfortunately the works on the new lights have been delayed slightly due to a previous job running over. We hope this will completed over the next couple of weeks.
Remember, it is the car boot sale this weekend - please come along and grab a bargain!
Latest update 25th May 2023
Works are due to begin on the new lighting and associated electrics next week.
We are hosting a car boot sale at Wildside on Saturday 10th June - there are still spaces available so please contact Tony by emailing tony-ceo@sfctrust.org.uk if you are interested.
Latest update 18th May 2023
We are in the process of finalising the Wildside Centre handbook, which will be sent to all Wildside users and will also be available to read onsite.
Latest update 11th May 2023
We can now confirm that we have secured a contractor to carry out works to improve lighting in the front room (off the kitchen) plus associated electrical works - he will be onsite in the last week of May.
Latest update 4th May
Wildside continues to be busy, with activities on most days of the week. It was great to see so many staff and directors in yesterday, coinciding with a visit from the mobile library and Jane from Lyne Mhor Croft. The next visit from the library is scheduled for the 31st May - you can reserve your books online here - www.highlifehighland.com/libraries/
In the meantime, the team is working on plans to develop the site both this and next financial year.
Latest update 27th April
The mobile library van will be at Wildside this coming Wednesday, 3rd May. Reserve your books via www.highlifehighland.com/libraries/ and select 'Dingwall and Moray Firth Mobile Library' as your collection point.
Latest update from 12th April 2023
A call has gone out to all groups who use the Wildside Centre for the budget 2023/24 and discussions how we organise ourselves in running the Wildside for 2023/24 are taking place in preparation for that too.
Latest update from 23rd March 2023
The polycrub for community growing has been installed at the Wildside Centre. Details and photographs can be found here
Latest update 9th March 2023
To find out what's been going on at Wildside this week click here.
Latest update 2nd March 2023
You may have noticed additional activity at Wildside this week - thank you to Angus Macpherson and Peter Faye for clearing and levelling the land in preparation for the new polycrub and playpark area.
You can read the notes from last month's action group meeting here.
Latest update 23rd February 2023
Thank you to everyone who came along to last week's meeting, the notes and actions arising will be circulated in due course.
Latest update 16th February 2023
We hope to see you at tonight's meeting - 7pm at the Wildside Centre.
Latest update 9th February 2023
Our next steering group meeting is to be held on Thursday 16th February at 7pm in the Wildside Centre. To view the agenda, click here.
Latest update 26th January 2023
Over the last couple of weeks, activities have begun again at Wildside, including Soup to Go every Monday,
and Warm Wednesdays, where the Wildside Centre is open for the community to use to socialise, work or enjoy a quiet moment with a book and a cup of tea. Next Wednesday sees our first 'Open Boot Local Produce Day', where local producers Lyne Mhor Croft, Jinty's Jams, and Birchwood croft will be selling their produce. Please come along and support them.
A new support group starts this Friday - you can find out more information about it here - https://www.stratherrickcommunity.org.uk/27-jan-2023-support-group.asp
To keep up to date with what is happening across the community, visit our What's on page.
Latest update 12th January 2023
Following the Christmas break, this week has been focussed on completing the takedown from Winter Wonderland. Thank you to those who completed the questionnaire, we will use your comments to improve on this year's event. You can read the feedback here - 9.1 out of 10 rating for Winter Wonderland | 20 December 2022 | Stratherrick & Foyers Community Trust (stratherrickcommunity.org.uk)
Our next focus is improving storage for the community groups that use the facility. We hope you will notice a difference in this soon.
Latest update 15th December 2022
Last weekend saw the return of Winter Wonderland - thank you to the staff, Directors, community groups, elves and volunteers for all of your hard work in making it such a success! If you were there and would like to provide feedback on the event, you can complete the suvey here - WILDSIDE CENTRE EVENT SURVEY - Winter Wonderland 2022 (surveymonkey.co.uk)
Latest update 1st December 2022
Winter Wonderland is in the news! Carol singing and a giant snow globe announced for Stratherrick’s Winter Wonderland event | STV News
Preparations are now well underway for next weekend's event, and thank you to all the volunteers who came along to our volunteer evening on Tuesday.
Latest update 24th November 2022
Yesterday we were informed that we have received approval from our funders to purchase the land adjacent to Wildside.
Work will also begin on new ramps off the path surrounding Wildside this weekend.
Latest update 17th November 2022
We are very pleased to see so many members of the community dropping in to use Wildside on a Wednesday, it is great to see so many folk using the facility. When you do come in you will notice that Sarah and Matt have been very busy making changes to the rooms to make the building more user-friendly. We have also received funding to help develop community initiatives like Warm Space Wednesday and we hope you will see the benefits of this soon.
Latest update 10th November 2022
Thank you to everyone who came along to our play area consultation event last Friday. We gathered a lot of useful feedback, which we will now take to two or three chosen equipment suppliers and ask them to come up with some designs and costs.
Matthew Rhodes, our new Caretaker started this week - welcome to the team!
Latest update 3rd November 2022
Yesterday was our first official 'Warm Wednesday' at the Wildside Centre and it was great to see so many people using the building. As part of this, Jane from Lyne Mhor Croft was selling her produce and Jinty's jams, chutneys and vinegars were also available to buy. You can read more here - Our first 'Open Boot' Local Produce Day | 03 November 2022 | Stratherrick & Foyers Community Trust (stratherrickcommunity.org.uk)
Remember to come to Wildside tomorrow to share your ideas for the play area. It's a drop-in event, running from 12.30 - 4pm and we'd love to hear your views!
Latest update 27th October 2022
We hope to see you at our consultation event next Friday (4th November) where you can share your thoughts on a small play area at the back of Wildside. It is a drop-in event, running from 12.30 - 4pm, children are welcome and refreshments will be provided!
Latest update 13th October 2022
We have shared the land report for the piece of land adjacent to The Wildside Centre with SSE and they have agreed that SFCT can proceed with the purchase.
Kirsty and Caroline have been working on proposals for developing the land at the back of Wildside, which we are looking forward to sharing with the community in a consultation event next month.
Latest update 6th October 2022
We received land report for the small area of land adjacent to Wildside this week. The contents of this will be circulated to the housing group in due course.
In last night's Board meeting new ramps for the walkway were approved, and the aim is that these will be completed before Winter Wonderland.
Latest update 29th September 2022
Conversations have begun regarding adding ramps to the path surrounding The Wildside Centre in time for this year's Winter Wonderland. We will keep you updated as this develops.
Latest update 22nd September 2022
The Wildside Centre was a hive of activity yesterday, with staff members, directors and community groups making use of the space for work and meetings. Wildside is open for use for community members between 9.30am and 3.30pm so do come and join us.
Contractors were onsite on the land adjacent to The Wildside Centre this week to dig test pits to ascertain suitability for purchase.
Latest update 15th September 2022
The Wildside Centre is open every Wednesday between 9.30am and 3.30pm for members of the community to use. We can offer kitchen, office or social space and free wifi so if you have concerns about using energy in your own home, please come to the Wildside. You can also catch up with some of our staff members who work from the Centre on Wednesday mornings.
Latest update 8th September 2022
Work will be taking place on or around the 21st September to dig test pits to check the suitability of the land adjacent to The Wildside Centre for purchase. This land will be used for future development and a possible site for housing.
Latest update 1st September 2022
Proposals have been made for the next phase of the Wildside project, and these will be put to the Board at the board meeting next week.
Latest update 18th August 2022
SFCT's solicitor has received notification from the Highland Council about the sale of 2.63 acres of land adjacent to the Wildside Centre, and the Trust has a copy of the notice title.
Latest update 7th July 2022
Weekly activities at Wildside will continue throughout the summer holidays - to see what's happening, please visit our What's On page.
Latest update 30th June 2022
We have this week confirmed that our landscaping contractors will take on the maintenance of the lawn outside Wildside. We are also working towards having the blown windows replaced and are sourcing quotes to have the outside of the building painted.
We are pleased to note that Wildside Wednesday has been successful, and the feedback from those that have made use of it has been very positive. The Wildside centre will remain open on Wednesdays throughout the summer for those of you who would like to use it as a work or study space.
Latest update 9th June 2022
We are pleased to welcome Gail Marshall to the Trust team and she has taken on the role as cleaner for Wildside.
Latest update 19th May 2022
Discussions have begun about the possibility of purchasing the land adjacent to Wildside. One of the potential uses for this section of land is a new children's play area, and Kirsty and Caroline got together last week to begin looking into options for this.
We are pleased to see lots of different activities at Wildside just now - have a look at our What's on page to see what you can get involved with.
Latest update 12th May 2022
Thank you to everyone who came along to our first market on Saturday. The next market is on the 2nd July - if you would like a stall please email admin@sfctrust.org.uk.
Latest update 5th May 2022
We hope to see you on Saturday for our first Market of the year! There will be crafts, clothing, plants as well as locally produced food, and of course tea and coffee.
Wildside is now open on a Wednesday to use as office or study space. Please come along if you fancy a change of scene from working from home.
Latest update 21st April 2022
Wildside is a hive of activity! Last weekend we hosted a wedding, and this weekend it is a pit-stop for Etape Loch Ness!
Don't forget that we are also hosting a Crafters and Crofters market on the 7th May - you can find out more information on this here.
Latest update 7th April 2022
The steering group met last week and discussed operational matters along with our vision for the building. If you would like to find out more about what was discussed, and get involved, please contact Catriona by emailing catriona-dir@sfctrust.org.uk
Latest update 31st March 2022
We look forward to seeing you at this evening's Steering Group meeting. Please come along and share your views on what you would like to see at Wildside.
Latest update 24th March 2022
We will hold our next meeting on Thursday 31st March - look out for more details on our website and Facebook page. On the agenda will be improvements to the grounds, the marquee and the inside of the building. If you would like to join the meeting, please email Kirsty-dir@sfctrust.org.uk
Latest update 17th March 2022
We were very pleased to host Soup to Go's 1st birthday celebrations on Monday! You will be able to read more about the party in the upcoming newsletter, but in the meantime you can read more about how Soup to Go came into being here.
Latest update 3rd March 2022
A new Steering Group meeting date has yet to be agreed - will let you know of this shortly.
Latest update 24th February 2022
We pleased to let you know that the new wheelchair-accessible path around Wildside is now complete! Thank you again to Michael and Mark for all of their hard work on this - I hope you agree that it is a fantastic asset to the area.
Unfortunately tonight's Steering Group meeting has been postponed - we will let you know when a new date is arranged.
Latest update 10th Febuary 2022
Unfortunately the weather has left its mark at Wildside over the last week or so - Michael and Mark have not been able to put the finishing touches on the path, so please be advised that it is not quite finished if you are using it.
The high winds have also caused some damage to the marquee, and we are sourcing some information on how it can be repaired.
Latest update 27th January 2022
The path is coming along nicely and should be finished over the next few days. Thank you Michael and Mark for all of your hard work on this.
We have a date for our next Steering Group meeting - Thursday 24th February at 7pm and will be a hybrid meeting. If you have not received your invitation and would like to attend please email Kirsty on kirsty-dir@sfctrust.org.uk
Latest update 20th January 2022
Caroline paid a visit to Wildside this week to check out the progress of the new path - it's looking great! Kirsty and the team are keen to progress with the next phase of landscaping around the building, so if you have any ideas that you would like to share, or help with, please contact Kirsty by emailing kirsty-dir@sfctrust.org.uk.
Latest update 13th January 2022
Work has begun in earnest on the new path around the Wildside centre, and this is due to be completed by the end of this month. We hope to schedule a Steering Group meeting very soon to discuss the next phase of landscaping. If you have any ideas for changes and developments to Wildside and the surrounding area, please let Kirsty know by emailing kirsty-dir@sfctrust.org.uk.
Latest update 16th December 2021
We held another successful community event at Wildside at the weekend - thank you to our events team for all of your hard work organising Winter Wonderland! Thank you also to all of our community groups and volunteers for helping make the event happen.
We are also pleased to let you know that materials have begun to arrive for our new pathway, so hopefully work will begin on this soon.
Latest update 2nd December 2021
Wildside is beginning to look festive as we begin setting up for next weekend's Winter Wonderland event! If you would like to get involved in any way, please contact Caroline at pc@fctrust.org.uk and she will find you a job to do!
Talking of jobs, we are currently advertising for a Buildings & Facilities Officer. If you would like to know more, please visit our Contracts for Work page here.
Latest update 25th November 2021
Attention this week for both staff and Directors of the Trust has been on preparation for the AGM and the launch of the CAP, which you can now read online. If you attended the AGM, you will have heard Kirsty's update on this project and we will continue to notify you of further progress here on a weekly basis.
Latest update - 18th November 2021
We are pleased to announce that Wildside received its Public Entertainment licence this week, which is valid until November 2024. Thank you to Steven for all of his work on making this happen!
Latest update - 11th November 2021
Jillian and Caroline met with Michael this week to discuss the new path for Wildside. Work is due to begin shortly after Winter Wonderland, with a view to be completed by the end of January 2022. Naturally this may be a little dependent on how much snow we get!
The Owl was in use again this week to host a meeting between the Trust and the Community Council. If your community group would like to make use of this facility, please contact Laura on admin@sfctrust.org.uk to book the Board room.
Latest update - 4th November 2021
We are pleased to announce that Michael Margetson has been awarded the contract to complete the new pathway around Wildside, which will be fully accessible to wheelchairs and pushchairs. The team will be meeting with Michael next week to put a plan together for commencing works.
The events team have also been busy working on the upcoming Winter Wonderland event. If you would like to help with the event (maybe you could be an elf?) or could spare an hour to help with the decorations we would love to hear from you! Please contact Jillian on jillian-dir@sfctrust.org.uk or Caroline on pc@sfctrust.org.uk and let us know how you can help.
Latest update - 28th October 2021
The lights in the car park at Wildside have recently been reviewed, and instead of being on permanently they are now set to a timer. This means that they will now only come on at set times.
We are pleased to have awarded the contract for phase 1 of our Landscaping Project to a local business, and we are hopeful that work will begin shortly on upgrading the path around the building. Thank you to all local businesses who put their name forward for this project.
Latest update - 12th October 2021
This week we have put Phase 1 of our landscaping project out to tender. If you would be interested in being considered for this contract, more information can be found here.
As part of the conditions for our Public Entertainment Licence, we are expecting some new road markings at the entrance to Wildside, along with some new signage. The road markings are due sometime this month, so please be aware of possible temporary disruption in the area.
And finally, please remember that SFCT will be holding their AGM on Wednesday 24th November, here at Wildside, or on Zoom. More information will be circulated shortly.
Latest update - 30th September 2021
We are pleased to let you know that alongside this year's Winter Wonderland we will also be hosting a Christmas Market. If you would like a stand at this event, please contact Caroline by emailing pc@sfctrust.org.uk or Steven at clo@sfctrust.org.uk.
Further event information, including how to book your slot with Santa, will be circulated soon.
Latest update - 23rd September 2021
The events team met today to discuss how Winter Wonderland will take shape this year. Ideas are flowing, and planning has begun. The event will run over Friday 10th and Saturday 11th December, and there will something there for everyone!
We will shortly be going out to tender for phase 1 of our Landscaping Project (upgrading the path around the building). If you would be interested in tendering for this work, please contact Caroline by emailing pc@sfctrust.org.uk. We are also have other openings available within the Trust - please visit our Contracts for Work page for more information.
Latest update - 16th September 2021
Following a meeting last week, we have now been granted our Public Entertainment Licence for Wildside, pending the meeting of certain conditions on the premises. We will be working in close collaboration with the Highland Council to get this work done as quickly as possible.
Latest update - 9th September 2021
Following our Steering group meeting last month (thank you to all who attended), we are beginning to look at possible improvements to the landscape surrounding the Wildside Centre. Phase 1 of these improvements is to upgrade the path around the building to make it wheelchair friendly, and we have begun research into the most suitable materials for this. If you have any ideas, or would like the opportunity to tender for this work, please get in touch with Kirsty!
Latest update - 26th August 2021
Our OWL is due to arrive today! This is not a new pet for the Trust, but a 360 degree smart video conferencing camera, speaker and microphone. As we work towards hosting Board meetings at Wildside again in person, this will enable those that cannot make it to still be able to be involved.
Our new online booking system is now live - please email Laura at admin@sfctrust.org.uk for more information if you would like to book any of the space available at Wildside.
Latest update - 19th August 2021
We have been working very hard on a new online booking form for booking space both within the Wildside Centre and also the grounds (and marquee) surrounding the building. We are hoping this will be launched very soon, making it much easier for community members and groups to book the facilities.
The Wildside Landscaping Team earlier this week to discuss the progress that has been made so far, suggestions from the wider community that were submitted at the Gala day and to action a plan for future works needed in the centre’s grounds to make it an even better place to enjoy.
So far the lawn area has been stablished, and has been a welcome addition to the outside space – having a flat, grassy area for groups to play on or outside benches to extend the seating areas. The marquee is now fully functional and can be booked out to use as an outside space or as additional space if needed for events etc. There is also an artificial grass floor, which can be rolled back if required, making it more multi-functional and fit for many uses. Higher Ground landscapers regularly visit the site to trim the grass and control the weeds. We have also cleared the broom to the rear of the building, opening up this ground to new possibilities.
Many of you contributed great suggestions and feedback onto our Wildside map at the Gala day. When the team met, we discussed all the ideas and grouped them into different categories; ‘Essential Upgrade’ included things like installing fully disable access paths around the building and more storage space. ‘Devolved to Groups’ included some suggestions like a Micro-Brewery or vegetable garden where we would hope a group of enthusiasts might like to pick this mini project up and drive it forward. ‘Next Projects’ included decked areas, bandstand, pergola and an outdoor stage. There were also suggestions like nature trails, bird boxes and playpark, which we grouped together as projects for the team to take forward next. Finally, there were some longer term suggestions that we categorised as ‘Potential Future Projects’ which included outdoor toilet facilities and an additional foyer to the front of the building. The team's next step is to speak to our Project Co-Ordinator Caroline and come up with a robust action plan.
If you are interested in any of the areas detailed above please get in touch to offer your feedback or support, we would love more people on our team.
Latest Update- 2nd August 2021
Latest Update- 9th July 2021
The good news is that we have managed to achieve our first 3 goals as part of the Landscaping team for Wildside!
-The lawn is now sown and if you have not already noticed, the grass is growing! A massive thank you to Bob Main for his fantastic work on this and Peter for his dedication to mowing and caring for the lawn!
- We now have 6 fabulous, solid benches that we can now use around the grounds at Wildside, we will try and pop them in appropriate places over the coming weeks. A big thank you to Mike for these.
-The whin bushes are now cleared at the back of the building so we can see what a great opportunity we have in this area now. Thank you Graham for all your work on this!
The marquee has now been erected and available to use for the community, so please email Laura at admin@sfctrust.org.uk if you would like to book the outdoor space or indeed the indoor space as well.
Higher Ground have been contracted to carry out the ground works at Wildside so they will continue to keep the grounds looking good over the coming months as we come into the next stage of the Wildside developments.
The Summer Gala is to take place on Saturday 24th July at The Wildside Centre, and the Trust are having a stand at the event. We think this is a fantastic opportunity for the Community to see the potential in the grounds at Wildside, so we are hoping to have a large map of the grounds where members of the Community can come and put their ideas onto the map.
If you are attending the Gala, please have a chat with some of the directors and note down your ideas. If you cannot make it to the Gala, then please just send on any ideas to kirsty-dir@sfctrust.or.uk or jillian-dir@sfctrust.org.uk at any time. After the Gala, we will then analyse the feedback and drill down the most sought-after ideas. We will discuss with the steering group how we will progress and what our next steps at our next meeting. Date TBC.
Latest Update- 15th March 2021
We would love to transform the grounds around The Wildside Centre and make it fit for purpose, so that the community can begin to enjoy the outdoor spaces. We would like to get together a group of enthusiasts who would like to input their ideas, wants and needs into the design and help transform it into a place where you might stop off for a picnic, let the kids safely run about, relax on riverside benches, take in the view of the beautiful scenery, see vintage machinery…the list goes on.
We will put a number of ideas into motion, but we need to know what you want and we need you to help make it happen.
If you would like to be involved in supporting this project then please join us for an informal Zoom chat and we can start to share ideas together!
The meeting is on MONDAY 22ND MARCH at 7:30 pm. Please email: kirsty-dir@sfctrust.org.uk or jillian-dir@sfctrust.org.uk for your zoom invite.
If you cannot attend but would like to send in your suggestions and be kept informed about the groups ideas and decisions then please email us, the more ideas the better!
Latest Update-August 2020
Directors at SFCT have taken the opportunity to give the Wildside Centre a facelift during the recent period of closure. Redecoration, new flooring and some appropriate furniture has all been installed (many thanks to Stratherrick Hall Management Committee for the kind loan of chairs and tables over the past months!), whilst the car park has been cleared and extended. Whilst the building was structurally very sound, finishes and decorations hadn’t been touched for almost thirty years, so a “facelift” was long overdue. In addition, we have looked at various heating systems and taken professional advice on the most appropriate and economic way to address the need – hopefully a “warm welcome” will soon be offered! We plan to have an “open day” as soon as possible, subject to Government restrictions, so that everyone can come along and have a look around. We hope you will be pleased with the results of our efforts to make the Wildside Centre a facility all our Community can be proud of! An “online” booking system is being investigated and this should make booking a room, or indeed the whole building, much easier and quicker. We’ll keep you updated through all the usual channels and look forward to welcoming all the regular groups, and hopefully some new ones, back to Wildside!
1st March 2020
The Wildside Centre is now the Trust’s Registered Office and will soon have an enlarged carpark with a good surface and we hope to have lights installed in the carpark before next winter. The awful weather we have had in January and February has meant that the groundworks had to be delayed until mid-March. As well as creating a decent carpark the groundworks involve levelling the ground between the building and the river and creating an accessible path round the building and down to a lovely grassy spot by the river. It will take a while for the grass to grow, but with time we hope to have an extensive area for sitting out. We have already purchased 2 wooden benches in anticipation of the summer sunshine.
Anyone visiting the building will see the transformed Board Room. This was the room whose walls were covered with an extensive mural. It made for a very dark room and we are extremely grateful for the considerable efforts of our past Chair who spent a week painting the walls white – 4 coats in all. It is now a lovely room – thank you very much Peter.
We also hope to have some new tables and chairs. If anyone wants any of the old desks please come and ask?
The building is being well used. We are pleased that the Youth Hub has been having monthly meetings, with more frequent meetings planned for the spring and summer. Wild Crafts, now hold monthly Craft days there. As new groups use the building we are happy for suggestions for improvements to the facilities. All groups will be glad to hear that we hope to get an efficient heating system installed over the summer, though this may cause a bit of disruption.
Anyone wishing to book The Wildside Centre can email the Trust at bookings@sfctrust.org.uk. The use of the Centre is free to Stratherrick and Foyers community groups but there is a fee for individual hire or for groups from further afield.
Update 20th December 2019
The results of the community consultation regarding the name of Wildside gave a resounding majority for the retention of the name -The Wildside Centre. Since the purchase of the property in the Spring the Trust has undertaken only essential repairs and made the building safe for public use. It is being well used by a variety of groups – Yoga, Mother and Toddlers, Singing Group, Lose lbs not £s, the Luvvies and in November all groups, who would ordinarily have been at Stratherrick Hall, decamped to Wildside allowing the Luvvies production to take place there. A successful craft day was held in November with plans to hold another in January and in December there was an inaugural meeting of the Youth Hub.
Wildside has become a base for the Trust. The monthly Board and other meetings are held there. Steven, in his new role as Community Liaison Officer is based there on a Tuesday so if any member of the Community wishes to speak to Steven and/or the Chair, they will be there every Tuesday.
The priority now is to install an energy efficient heating system and in the New Year work will be undertaken to create a car-park and landscaping with paths and grassed seating areas.
A booking system is currently being developed and further updates will be available in due course.
Update 19 August 2019
https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/MZRCXX8
Do you have an opinion on what the future name of the Wildside Classroom building should be? The top four results in the recent consultation are as follows. The Fechlin Centre, The Thain Centre, The Wade Bridge Centre or the Wildside Centre. To register your vote, click the link above and take the survey – there is just one question to answer!
Update 29 July 2019
Thank you to the many residents who responded with ideas about how the Trust should make use of the Wildside Classroom building and site. Your responses are now being considered by the directors of the Trust. When the Stratherrick Public Hall was out of use recently for kitchen refurbishment many people had the opportunity of attending classes or groups at the Wildside Classroom. Comments included the possible benefits of the whole site as it has easy access to the outdoor areas and the river bank. Please check back here for more information shortly.
Update 29 April 2019
Thank you to so many local residents who came along for a good look at the building and site at Wildside Classroom on 27 April 2019. Many people were astonished at the great condition of the building and attractive area down towards the river.
The work undertaken to date is as follows
Cleaned roof, painted sofits and window frames, renewed three panes of double glazing, some internal paintwork, testing of electrics, new fire extinguishers and scraping vegetation from the car park area.
Feedback and ideas from the public are still welcome.
A closing date for comments will be announced soon. Here is a link to the tree questions which you may wish to answer.
Wildside Consultation Public Comment Sheet and Room Plan
DOORS OPEN DAY AT WILDSIDE CLASSROOM
Come along any time on Saturday 27th April 2019 from 10 am to 4 pm and see the building and site at Whitebridge for yourself.
Now in full community ownership!
We need local people to let the Trust know how they think this asset can best be used to improve community life and services in our area.
Former Wildside Classroom Building and Site
Update 9 April 2019
Activities relocate temporarily from Stratherrick Public hall to Wildside Classroom.
The amount of urgent repair work to the floor in the Stratherrick Public Hall is much greater than previously estimated, so it has been necessary to close the Hall for some users meantime. This will allow the local contractor to work without hindrance and complete his work quickly and efficiently.
Some community activities have transferred temporarily to the Wildside Classroom Building in Whitebridge. Please check that your class or event is still on with your group leader.
Peter Faye, Chair of Stratherrick and Foyers Community Trust said that it had been a great benefit that the Wildside Classroom building was available. The Wildside Classroom building is now owned outright by Stratherrick and Foyers Community Trust.
Peter added that Trust volunteers were relocating some of the Hall’s chairs to the Wildside Classroom meantime. The replacement of the kitchen floor at Stratherrick Public Hall is also an opportunity to improve the kitchen units there. It will all be better before too long!
Update 6 March 2019
Site clearance and basic maintenance begins.
Additional information including a plan of the rooms is included in the March 2019 edition of the Stratherrick and Foyers NEWS.
Stratherrick and Foyers News
The following information was also featured in the Press and Journal dated 26 February and the Inverness Courier of 1 March 2019.
Update – 22 February 2019
Stratherrick and Foyers Community Trust has announced that the site is now in Trust Ownership. A press release is shown below.
Stratherrick and Foyers Community Trust purchases key village site at Whitebridge.
The Community Trust which serves most of the South side of Loch Ness has announced the acquisition of more valuable property. There are now four sites into local community trust’s control.
Peter Faye, Chair of Stratherrick & Foyers Community Trust confirmed that the former Outdoor Centre Classroom at Wildside, had been purchased by the Trust from its current private owners ending years of uncertainty over a key site in the village of Whitebridge.
Peter said ‘Community ownership guarantees the site will be used to benefit local people. There are precious few opportunities like this and the Trust is delighted with the purchase.’ The former Outdoor Centre and the two-acre site has been mothballed for many years and private developers had proposed it be demolished to make way for five large houses on the site. Planning consent for the executive homes had lapsed so the Community Trust decided to make their move.
Peter Faye, who is in his second term as Chair of the local Trust added ‘Energy firm SSE confirmed recently that the Trust will receive additional community benefit funds. These come from the Stronelairg windfarm which is located entirely within the Stratherrick and Foyers boundary. Our Trust board felt confident in buying the former Wildside Outdoor Centre outright. We can now consult our residents on how the area might be best used. Options include refurbishing the building which is in remarkably sound condition and developing the remainder of the site in a way that supports our community here. Ideas include housing, units for the use of self-employed people, a community timber yard and a recreation pitch. The site is big enough that even a micro-brewery could be considered. This community needs facilities and employment opportunities. The last thing we needed on this site was five new executive houses!’
Stratherrick and Foyers Community Trust also owns a field earmarked for recreational facilities at Lower Foyers. Development plans are currently being drawn up by the Trust’s architect. Stratherrick and Foyers Community Trust also leases a large neglected area of former commercial land on Loch Ness-side from SSE which the Trust plans to regenerate. The fourth property in the Trust’s portfolio is the Industrial Units at Foyers. These two units have now been refurbished and brought back into use as a centre for local care organisation Boleskine Community Care. The Trust provides the premises at a nominal rent.
Peter concluded ‘The Wildside Centre site is unique. It is close to the famous Wade Bridge at Whitebridge and has direct access to the B852 public road. It is on our bus route and handy for the Whitebridge Hotel. Purchasing this land is a big step for the Stratherrick and Foyers Community Trust. Local people now have an opportunity to use the land and building to support their own community – for ever.’
Public ‘Doors Open’ Days will be held during March to allow people to look round the building. It has not been used for anything for 18 years.
Wildside Update – 7 January 2019
Readers may recall that the Trust Chair Peter J Faye intimated to the AGM last November that Stratherrick and Foyers Community Trust was looking to purchase the outdoor centre site and building at Wildside, Whitebridge at an advantageous price and subject to all the necessary checks being completed and satisfactory. The property is currently in private ownership. To avoid mis-information, Peter gave a commitment to updating the community on any progress.
Since November the Trust and has been in repeated contact with the selling agents. Whilst no deal has currently been concluded with the seller, the Trust remains confident that a satisfactory outcome will be reached in due course. It is expected that the funds recently allocated to the Trust from SSE’s windfarm at Stronelairg will be used to purchase the property for community use.
Any future news of the outcome of the attempt to purchase the former outdoor centre at Wildside will be posted on this website.
| Project Team |
|---|
| Catriona Fraser |
| Caroline Tucker |
| Project Documents |
|---|
| Wildside Landscaping Design Presentation |
| Wildside Landscaping Design Invite |
Stratherrick & Foyers Community Trust,