Moray College forced to close for storm damage repairs

STORM Brendan has forced the emergency closure of Moray College UHI today.

All staff and students have been informed not to attend the campus today after strong winds battered the area last night, causing damage to the roof of the main building off Moray Street.

The closure covers all college buildings across Elgin.

Building contractors were on site around the glass-fronted college entrance this morning to assess the damage. Barriers have been put in place around the main building.

A spokesperson for the college said: "There was damage to the roof of the college building last night due to the storm.

"Currently a contractor is on site to assess the damage caused and we will know more later today.

"The decision to close the college last night was based on a full risk assessment."

Storm Brendan blasted Moray with rain and south-westerly gusts upwards of 50mph. Flood alerts were in place along much of Scotland's coastline.

Moray SNP MSP Richard Lochhead said: "I have been briefed on the storm damage to the college by the principal and hopefully the damage will be repaired soon, allowing staff and students to get back to normal as quickly as possible.

"The fact that the college was damaged shows just how strong the storm was and I would encourage everyone to take care – especially given the flood warnings in Moray."

Moray Conservative MP Douglas Ross said: "Sadly, the weather inflicted substantial damage around Moray and commuters have been experiencing difficulties due to the adverse conditions. I know that the road agencies and local authority have been out trying to deal with the difficult conditions and we’re all very grateful for their efforts.

"One Forres family had to call for assistance after part of their roof blew off but fortunately services were on site straight away to help. I’m pleased to hear that everyone in the house is OK, but it must have been a worrying experience for them all.

"With Moray College also being closed due to the storm damage it’s clear that the area felt the full impact of Storm Brendan. With the inclement weather due to continue we need to be braced for more disruption, but hopefully this will be kept to a minimum."

Some weather disruption is forecast to continue throughout the next 24 hours.

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