The five architectural practices that have been shortlisted to take part in the competition to design the new hall are (in alphabetical order):

• Graeme Massie Architects, Edinburgh

• Reiach and Hall Architects, Edinburgh

• Sarah Hare Architects Ltd, London

• Studio KAP, Chartered Architects, Glasgow

• Sutherland Hussey Architects, Edinburgh

Each of these practices will prepare preliminary plans of their visions of the new hall for submission later in the year. Two finalists will be chosen by the judging panel which consists of three prominent architects – Bob Allies, Tarla MacGabhann and Angela Williams – and three village representatives – Jack Page, Nicky Tait and Craig Leuchars. The panel will be chaired by Charles Rattray, of the Scott Sutherland School of Architecture, Aberdeen.

The two finalists will each present their designs in detail to public meetings in the existing hall. All material will then be displayed in the hall for a period of open viewing. An information pack and ballot papers will be sent out to the community of Collieston and Slains and the winner will be chosen on the basis of this ballot. We hope to announce the winner in October.

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