Coldingham Sands Youth Hostel
But now, the hostel has been closed and put up for sale by the Scottish Youth Hostel Association and there is a very real possibility that this valuable asset will be lost to future generations. In January 2008, the people of Coldingham and St Abbs set up a Community Company (limited by guarantee and with charitable status), in a bid to purchase the hostel under Scottish Right to Buy legislation. They are determined to keep the hostel open because they recognise the irreparable damage to their communities that would result from closure. In addition, if it closes for good, then thousands of potential future visitors to the hostel will have been denied the opportunity to enjoy a stay at this stunning location. For those readers who are unfamiliar with the Berwickshire coast, the hostel occupies a unique position overlooking a beautiful sandy bay with rocky headlands and an additional shingle beach. It definitely has the ‘wow’ factor! As well as a perfect beach for families with small children, there are spectacular cliff top walks rising to St Abbs head which is owned by the National Trust for Scotland and which is home to large, noisy seabird colonies. St Abbs and Coldingham Bay are also in great demand for diving and surfing destinations, with a real need for affordable accommodation. We have already suffered from the closure of many accommodation providers and cannot allow the loss of another 36 beds at the hostel. We are very optimistic that our project will get Big Lottery funding, but we still have to raise substantial amounts of money from other sources. If you feel that you would like to help our campaign by a donation, however small, then we would be delighted. Also, you may have friends who have stayed at the hostel who might like to contribute. Please spread the word in any way you can as we have a limited period in which to raise the purchase price! If you would like any further information, we would be glad to supply it. Enquiries to 018907 71351 or email ar@1030.us Cheques should be made out to: Coldingham Sands Community Company and sent to:- Elderbank West, High Street, Coldingham, TD14 5NL
You can also make a donation online here.
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