Forres hospital Leanchoil’s grounds occupied by travellers’ ‘unauthorised encampment’
Travellers have set up an “unauthorised encampment” at a former hospital site that is still being used as an active ambulance station.
A group of caravans have parked up at Leanchoil Hospital in Forres. Police are “aware” of the situation and enquiries are ongoing.
NHS Grampian, which owns and runs the site and the ambulance station, said it is beginning the process of removing the encampment.
Marianne Nicolson, chairwoman of the Leanchoil trustees, has said she is concerned about the “security and preservation” of the buildings.
Trustees recently unveiled proposals to turn the former hospital into a community hub, which would include a café and maths and science classrooms for children.
Ms Nicolson said: “Leanchoil trustees are aware of the encampment of travellers on the former hospital site, and have advised the owners, NHS Grampian, of this.
“Our main concern is the security and preservation of the buildings, but we have to wait for officials from NHS Grampian to take the appropriate action.
“Meantime the site remains an active ambulance station.”
An NHS Grampian spokesperson said: "We were made aware earlier today (Thursday) of an unauthorised encampment at the former Leanchoil Hospital site and will begin the removal process."
Police Scotland were also made aware of the situation today and added that “enquiries are ongoing” and said they are “liaising with the local authority”.
Leanchoil Hospital was built in 1892 and closed in 2018. Should planning consent be agreed, work on the community hub could start in spring 2026.
