New look Speyside Centre rises from the ashes
The Speyside Centre is dead – long live the Speyside Centre!
It was at 8.20am on Friday, April 29, 2016, that a huge blaze engulfed the popular attraction – previously known as the Speyside Heather Centre – by Skye of Curr.
The extensive damage had threatened to finish off the Lambie family’s 46-year-old operation completely.
But now the phoenix is beginning to soar.
The family behind the business told the Strathy that after more than three years of hard work they are well on course to be trading in the main building of their new premises before Christmas.
“The secret has been just to keep plodding on regardless,” said Craig Lambie.
Mr Lambie, brother Iain, parents David and Betty and their staff have managed to keep one aspect or another of the establishment up and running since the fire gutted much of the extensive site.
Currently the company is still employing a dozen people, as well as family members.
“We certainly had no option but to keep trading as so many issues were sorted out,” said Mr Lambie.
“Of course there are matters which still need sorting but we are very positive people.”
Now they have a new home nearly ready to show for their pains – with not a few surprises in store.
Mr Lambie explained that the centre would be home to a brand new interactive Gateway to Strathspey.
“At the Peat Reek experience our visitors will be able to immerse themselves in the heritage, culture and landscape of the local area through the stories of Strathspey and Badenoch, its landscape and people.
“Visitors will be invited to take a virtual wander along the banks of the River Spey from source to sea."
More on this story in the latest Strathy now on sale.
