An outdoor activity centre that has been the springboard for generations of Scotland’s adventurous youth is in line for a revamp.
Scott Lodge in the Angus glens has been home to countless activity holidays for children’s and outdoor clubs since it was built by the Boys’ Brigade in 1967.
The lodge, which overlooks the River South Esk at the head of Glen Doll, has had a recent lick of paint, but its caretakers believe its unisex dormitory and shower room are not so suitable for modern use.
Whereas mixed-sex groups had to come to a “workable arrangement” over sleeping and showering, future visitors will enjoy en-suite shower rooms among the more traditional fixtures 32 hymn sheets and a King James Bible.
The organisation is taking the opportunity to bolster visitor numbers with an ambitious refit.
A spokesman for Dundee and Angus Boys’ Brigade Battalion said: “We are delighted to announce plans for the development of our outdoor centre, Scott Lodge … It is proposed to add a new wing on the river side of the existing lodge that will provide modern accommodation suited to female residents, including en-suite toilet, wash-hand basin and shower.”
Other changes will provide a small base for the lodge warden, relocation of the disabled toilet, a new fire escape and additional storage space.
Although the lodge was built and administered by the company, it can be booked by “any other groups or individuals wishing to enjoy the wonderful walks and scenery available in the area”.
The Dundee battalion numbered 55 companies at its height in the 1930s and 1940s.
Although 1st Kirriemuir has celebrated its centenary, Angus Battalion was only formally founded in 1948 and included 18 companies from Arbroath, Brechin, Ferryden, Forfar, Kinnell and Friockheim, and Montrose.
The two battalions merged in 2003 and now administer 14 companies eight in Dundee and six in Angus.
Unfortunately, the 12th Company at St David’s High Kirk in Dundee closed at the beginning of May.
As much as it offers ample opportunity for walking and water activities, the glens can be a wild and inhospitable place.
This was brought home in 2001 when two BB groups were trapped in the lodge over a wintry weekend.
Members of the 30th Dundee and an Edinburgh company spent a few days trapped by drifting snow.