The Scottish Lime Centre Trust (SLCT) was established in 1994 as a not-for-profit organisation and a registered charity in Scotland. Its core aims are to promote the appropriate repair of Scotland's traditional and historic buildings, advance education through advice and training in the use of lime for repair and conservation, and preserve and develop Scottish building traditions, crafts, and skills. The Trust operates from its Charlestown Workshops, which it rescued and restored, and boasts a multi-skilled staff and external consultants with broad experience.
SLCT offers a wide range of services including building materials analysis, mortar analysis, and troubleshooting for conservation, repair, or construction projects. They provide consultancy services for the building conservation industry, encompassing inspection and investigation of historic buildings, preparation of job specifications, project management, and advice on new builds. With experience in over 2,000 projects, their remit is extensive, covering everything from cottages to castles and bridges.
Furthermore, the Scottish Lime Centre Trust runs a variety of traditional skills training courses, offering SQA accreditation in masonry conservation. These courses cater to all backgrounds, from contractors to homeowners, and are designed to enhance skills in traditional building techniques and materials. They also provide instructional training videos and resources, aiming to ensure the continued practice and understanding of these vital heritage crafts.