Elgin town centre transformation work to begin in early 2025, Moray Council confirms
Construction work which will transform parts of Elgin in the hope of regenerating the area will begin in early 2025.
The first stage of the much-anticipated South Street regeneration project will see a ground level clearance around several properties on both South Street and Elgin High Street.
The old Jailhouse Nightclub, Newmarket Bar and Junners toy shop will all be redeveloped.
The project is a partnership between Moray Council, Robertson Property Ltd, Moray Growth Deal and UHI Moray.
It will deliver 38 one and two bedroom flats, a business enterprise hub, three commercial retail units and improved public spaces linking South Street and the High Street.
The work is likely to cause some disruption in the town centre while it is carried out.
But Councillor Marc Macrae, Chair of Moray Council’s Economic Development and Infrastructure Services Committee, insists the temporary disruption will be worth it to provide long-term improvements.
Cllr Macrae said: “I’m looking forward to seeing construction on the project begin in early 2025, providing much-needed homes, business opportunities, and vibrant public spaces to our town centre.
“We appreciate that there will be disruption to South Street during the construction phases, with road closures necessary for safety but I hope residents and visitors will appreciate this needs to happen to get the transformation we want to see in our region’s capital.
“The council gives a commitment to make sure any disruption is communicated as effectively as possible and I thank folk in advance for their patience during any temporary work to help make Moray an event better place to live, work and visit.”
The project is the first to be delivered as part of the £18 million Levelling Up Fund with more to follow.
That includes the redevelopment of the vacant former sawmill by Linkwood Road and work to revitalise Cooper Park.
Improvements to the park will include accessible walkways, biodiversity planting, new seating and an upgraded pond area.
The existing toilets block will be transformed into new toilets and café.
Meanwhile, the central Elgin project’s aim is to boost the town’s evening economy by revitalising derelict sites and supporting creative arts with a new centre in the former Gordon Arms Hotel on the High Street.
It is also hoped that improved traffic control measures, accessibility, and new café spaces will enhance the area’s outdoor culture.
