The Institute has been successful in securing a first-round pass of £84,000 to develop exciting restoration plans for historic buildings on Cambo Estate. The Institute can now progress to the second stage where it will develop detailed proposals to secure a further £854,000 towards the total project cost of £2.2million to develop and restore the historic 18th century stables and coach house, which are currently dilapidated and redundant, and the Estate gardens. These refurbished building will then provide improved facilities for the growing number of school and community activities, volunteers and visitors enjoying the Estate and its historic landscape.

Established in 1998, the Institute now provides a host of learning and volunteering opportunities in heritage, the environment, arts, culture and horticulture.

Currently, the Institute provides work experience and training for garden students, holds weekly sessions in Green Gym, Forest Education and regular art and environmental workshops for local schools throughout the year. The Victorian gardens, and breathtaking snowdrop woods, now have a worldwide reputation and the demand for horticulture placements and volunteering has outgrown the existing facilities. 

The beautiful buildings, dating from 1756 and unused since before the Second World War, will be given a new lease of life to provide a hub for Cambo Institute and it’s ever increasing training and educational activities.   

Sir Peter Erskine, Chairman of Cambo Institute, who was delighted to hear of HLF’s support for their exciting plans, said: “It is wonderful to be able to look forward to a sustainable and sympathetic conversion of these important historic buildings - a fantastic opportunity to combine preserving glorious buildings for the future with the provision of a multitude of opportunities for future generations.”

Colin McLean, Head of HLF in Scotland, added: “We at HLF are passionate about getting as many people as possible involved in their local history and heritage. This exciting project encapsulates that aim as the restoration of the historic 18th century outbuildings will create a focal point for visitors and volunteers to learn more about this beautiful estate and its breath-taking landscape, gardens and the world famous snowdrop woods. It will also create new opportunities for people to train in a whole range of traditional horticultural and other heritage skills that are both fun and educational. There is still work to be done on the proposals but we will be offering them full support in taking the application further.”

Notes to editors

Using money raised through the National Lottery, the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) sustains and transforms a wide range of heritage for present and future generations to take part in, learn from and enjoy. From museums, parks and historic places to archaeology, natural environment and cultural traditions, we invest in every part of our diverse heritage.  HLF has supported 33,00 projects, allocating £4.5billion across the UK.

Further information

Please contact Catherine Erskine at Cambo Institute on 01333 450 054 or catherine@camboestate.com.