The newly revamped Ballater's Old Royal Station is to officially open next week, 20 August.

The station underwent works by Aberdeenshire Council after it was destroyed by a fire in May 2015.

The new facility includes a VisitScotland information centre, a restaurant and tearoom run by The Prince's Foundation and an Aberdeenshire Council public library – as well as a restored Royal waiting room and carriage. 

There is also a new space extending along the old platform and over the tracks where the Royal carriage sits.

Provost Howatson will open the building in an official ceremony.

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Speaking ahead of the event, he said: "I know the community is very much looking forward to the reopening of the station and I'm personally happy to be involved in the culmination of such an important project for the area, which has involved a lot of hard work by a large number of people.

"Once again visitors to Ballater will be able to experience this important part of the town's Royal heritage and history, in surroundings which are arguably improved on what went before the devastating fire back in 2015.

"I've already had a glimpse inside the building while works progressed – the restoration is very sympathetic and there's a very high standard of workmanship. I hope the community is proud of what is the result of a lot of hard work and enjoys the results for many years to come.

"I have to thank Historic Environment Scotland and the Cairngorms National Park Authority for their input, and I know our partners at Aberdeenshire Libraries, VisitScotland and The Prince's Foundation are very much looking forward to contributing to community life, as well as welcoming the wide range of visitors drawn to this beautiful part of the world."

(CM/LM)