The old Tariff Notice Board, used when the Kessock Ferry was still in operation, has, thanks to a member of the local business community, reappeared back at it’s old haunt.

The South Kessock Environmental Project which is situated within the old South Kessock Ferry ticket office, now houses a small but perfectly formed exhibition centre, set up by the Merkinch Community Council in August 1994 after an agreed lease arrangement with the then Highland Regional Council.

The Project displays photographs, prints and awards recording the hard work carried out by the community and voluntary organisations in the area in the years since the Kessock Bridge opened and the withdrawal of the Ferry services (1985), when the place lapsed into neglect.

The cleanup of the area started in 1991 and in 1992, as some of you will no doubt remember, the area was given a 'going over' by the BBC Beechgrove Garden Hit Squad. With the help of a hard working and enthusiastic community the South Kessock Pier and surrounding area was turned from what had once been a fly-tippers paradise to a scenic viewpoint out over the Beauly Firth complete with plants and shrubs. As well as recording the clean up achievements, the old pier ticket office also accommodates an impressive array of photo’s, prints and drawing of the local flora, fauna and sea life of the area, along with displays and artefacts depicting local history. And of course this is where the now famous Tariff Board comes into it’s own. It takes it’s place among the old objects, such as the mangle, washing board, the old telephone and old bottles that have been found or donated to the Project. Not bad for a project that started out with only £100 and a few enthusiastic people putting things together in their own homes.

Since opening it’s doors nearly 5 years ago the Project has received frequent requests from schools, Brownies and Guides as well as a host of other recreational clubs and foreign students to visit. The site is very much a hands-on affair, with the emphasis on having fun as much as learning, visitors are encouraged to handle the artefacts and read the many books and posters that cover the walls, a great way of learning about the local environment, past and present.

Dell McClurg, Chairperson of the Merkinch Community Council, and involved in the Project since it’s inception says of the future for the Project "It is very much still a community focussed place. People will come down for a walk on a Sunday and pop into us for a cuppa. We are keeping the café side of things inexpensive for that particular reason and although we love to see tourists and clubs enjoying the exhibition we still want the old familiar faces popping in for a quick cuppa and a chat".

The centre is run entirely by volunteers and although it is only open on Sundays, or by special request, it is hoped that in the near future they will be able to extend the hours.

So next time you’re out for a stretch of the legs you should pop along and see this Aladdin’s Cave for yourself.