About Us
The Highland Historic Buildings Trust (HHBT) was established in 1985 as a non-profit making organisation. It is a registered charity, reference no SCO 08403 and a company limited by guarantee no.101235.
Mission Statement
“Restoring and returning to use the built heritage of the Highlands and Islands”
Essentially, HHBT tackles historic buildings that are at risk, and which are beyond the capability of the private sector, normally because the cost of repair is significantly higher than the end value. Such projects are therefore dependent on higher levels of public funding, usually from a number of sources.
Aims and objectives
HHBT was established to achieve the following objectives:
- To preserve the built heritage of the Highlands and Islands
- To acquire derelict historic buildings for repair and re-use
- To use any proceeds from the sale of restored properties on a revolving fund basis to tackle other projects
These objectives are underpinned by the key aim to secure a viable, sustainable and appropriate end use for each building to ensure the ongoing care and preservation of the building for future generations.
Originally operating as a 'restorer of last resort', its focus is now on facilitating community involvement in the adaptive re-use of historic buildings. By working at a strategic level, it supports local community groups to undertake the work at operational level.
Trustees
Alexander Bennett
VICE CHAIR - Alexander Bennett is a retired Chartered Building Surveyor and Land Agent. He worked at the National Trust for Scotland (NTS) for 37 years as building surveyor, factor, conservation & general manager; coordinating high-profile projects across the Highlands & Islands. Current roles include:
- Trustee and Vice Chair of Highland Historic Buildings Trust (HHBT)
- Trustee & Director of the Fair Isle Bird Observatory Trust (FIBOT)
- Volunteer with the Highland Cross organisers; a 50-mile duathlon to raise money for causes that benefit the people of Highlands
Jean Ramsay Smith
Jean Ramsay Smith has over 25 years marketing experience in the UK, Europe, Asia and North America. She has a proven track record in brand development and in leading and developing a business portfolio.
Advisors
Rhona Wilson
COMPANY FINANCIAL ADVISOR & ACCOUNTANT - Rhona Willson is a Director at MacKenzie Kerr Ltd. She is one of the firm’s Audit Directors. Rhona works in a variety of client sectors with particular skills in advising and assisting charitable organisations.
Douglas Graham
COMPANY SECRETARY - Douglas Graham is a retired Solicitor; his areas of practice included the establishment of charities, social enterprises and community land buy outs. He is currently Voluntary Company Secretary of HHBT and a Director of The Richard Demarco Foundation.
Trustees
Glyn Young
Glyn Young is an experienced Chartered Surveyor specialising in building conservation. He has been involved in and led, several large and complex building conservation projects. Glyn’s skills include survey and repair, design, procurement, contract administration, and project management.