Former Cruickshanks department store in Huntly transformed into cafe, cinema and co-working space

A former three-storey department store in Huntly has been transformed into a new café, cinema and co-working space following millions of pounds worth of renovations.

The old Cruickshanks department store closed in 2018, with the keys to the building handed to the Huntly Development Trust (HDT) the following year.

After six years of renovations, the new facility – known as Number 30 – officially opened on Thursday.

“This building has stood at the heart of Huntly for generations, and for the past few years it’s been waiting for a new purpose,” said Carolyn Powell, HDT Joint General Manager.

She added: “The transformation into Number 30 has taken time, care and a huge amount of collaboration – but what we now have is a space that reflects the needs and ambitions of the community.

“The response so far has been incredibly positive, and it’s been encouraging to see people walk through the doors and immediately recognise how they might use the space.

“Number 30 is about creating opportunities, building confidence in the town centre and supporting the kind of activity that helps Huntly thrive, now and into the future.”

The redevelopment was funded by from the Scottish Government’s Regeneration Capital Grant Fund, Aberdeenshire Council’s Place Based Investment Fund, Clashindarroch Wind Farm Community Fund, Transport Scotland, The William Grant Foundation, Inspiring Scotland and HDT itself.

HDT trustee Rosemary Munro said: “This building has been part of Huntly’s town centre for generations, and it’s always held a special place in the life of the town.

“Seeing it open its doors once again – with a new purpose and renewed energy – is a really positive moment. We’ve created something that responds to what the community needs today, with the flexibility to grow and evolve in the years ahead.

“It marks a fresh start, and we’re hopeful about the role it can play in supporting Huntly’s future.”

HDT believes the reopening of Number 30 will act as a catalyst for further regeneration and business development across the town.

It is both community owned and operated with space available for hire and a programme of events and activities planned throughout the year.