MORAY MP Douglas Ross has welcomed news that Scottish Water has transferred the old water tower building in Keith to the local community.
Commenting after Keith Golf Club were revealed as the new owners, Douglas said: “I’m delighted that this building has been saved for the local community and secures its use as a valuable asset for the golf club who have been negotiating to have it transferred over to them for some time.
“This really demonstrates how buildings which once served their local communities can be brought back to life or find other uses and I’m delighted that Keith Golf Club can continue to use it with the knowledge they can maintain and keep it for decades to come.
“Keith Golf Club is an important part of the community which has been around for sixty years and I’m sure local people will be delighted with this news. Transfer of ownership ensures it will be available for use by the local community for the long term.
“It’s also good to hear that the transfer is a first for Scottish Water under the new Community Empowerment Act legislation which was introduced in 2015 to give local communities the opportunity to acquire, lease or manage properties where there are clear benefits in passing over to their control.”
Ian Wilson, Keith Golf Club Captain said: “We’re extremely pleased to now be official owners of the tower, an asset the club and surrounding community can benefit from. We’re truly delighted to have got to this point.”
Natalie Alexander, Estates Surveyor, for Scottish Water concluded: “We are pleased to have reached this stage having worked amicably and closely with the Keith Golf Club to reach a positive outcome. The transfer of ownership of the tower will help contribute to the wellbeing of the local community and protect its continued use for the long term.
