Speyside Centre rises from the ashes after devastating blaze

After nearly four years of blood, sweat and tears, the popular Speyside Centre re-opened its doors – and then promptly closed them later the same day because of the coronavirus outbreak.

Large parts of the visitor attraction by Dulnain Bridge were gutted by a huge blaze in April 2016.

Since then the Lambie family and retained staff have worked round the clock to rebuild the business.

This culminated on Monday (March 23) with the low key soft opening of the new seven-figure sum visitor and retail centre including cafe and 'The Lounge' function complete with balcony, and even a new 'Sitooterie'.

A philosophical Craig Lambie, director, reflected: "We must be the only garden centre in history to open for a few hours then close until further notice."

The new-look Speyside Centre shut in line with all other non-essential businesses in the UK following the lock down announced by Prime Minister Boris Johnson later that same day.

However, they are running a delivery service as many other firms in the strath are now doing too to help survive the toughest trading times in living memory for most people.

Mr Lambie told the Strathy: "Our intention after opening was to stay open as long as we felt it was safe to do so or until the Government advised us not to – which was the case later that day.

"It’s almost four years since our worlds were turned upside down with the events of the fire on April 29, 2016.

"The whole journey to get to this stage has been a rollercoaster ride of emotions but the constant words of encouragement from visitors and positive feedback from throughout the local area has spurred us on along the way.

"We’ve used local suppliers and tradesmen where possible and the quality of their work can be seen throughout the new build.

"It’s an understatement to say that our timing for launching the new centre hasn’t been ideal but everything has to be put in perspective.

"All our thoughts and best wishes at this time go out to every family going through this current crisis over the next few months."

His brother and fellow director Iain Lambie said: "We’d like to take this opportunity to give a huge thanks to all our brilliant staff who have stuck by us through thick and thin and can’t wait to get them back on board.

"We hope everyone stays safe and well and look forward to welcoming them when we all get through this together."

The current crisis has delayed the installation of the ‘Peat Reek Visitor Experience’ at the attraction.

It is a brand new interactive ‘gateway’ to Speyside where visitors can immerse themselves in the heritage, culture and landscape of the local area.

The Lambie family hopes to have an opening which is "a little more celebratory" once the coronavirus crisis passes.

Forty firefighters were called to deal with the blaze at its height after the alarm was raised at about 8.20am.

Flames spread rapidly through the building and the fire was already very well developed by the time 999 crews reached the scene.

For more details on delivery services visit https://www.heathercentre.com/

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