Work to transform Elgin town center will begin in early 2025, Moray council confirms

Construction work that will transform parts of Elgin in hopes of regenerating the area will begin in early 2025.

The first stage of the much-anticipated South Street regeneration project will see ground clearing around several properties on South Street and Elgin High Street.

The former Jailhouse nightclub, Newmarket Bar and Junners toy store will all be redeveloped.

The project is a partnership between Moray Council, Robertson Property Ltd, Moray Growth Deal and UHI Moray.

It will provide 38 one and two bedroom apartments, a business hub, three commercial units and improved public spaces linking South Street and High Street.

The work may cause some disruption in the city center during its completion.

But Councilor Marc Macrae, chairman of Moray Council’s economic development and infrastructure services committee, insists this temporary disruption will be worth it to deliver long-term improvements.

Cllr Macrae said: “I look forward to seeing construction on the project begin in early 2025, delivering much-needed housing, business opportunities and vibrant public spaces to our town centre.

“We understand that there will be disruption to South Street during the construction phases, with road closures necessary for safety reasons, but I hope residents and visitors will understand that this is necessary to achieve the transformation that we want to see in the capital of our region.

“The council is committed to ensuring any disruption is communicated as effectively as possible and I thank people in advance for their patience during any temporary works to help make Moray a better place to live, work and visit .”

The project is the first to be delivered under the £18m Leveling Up Fund with more to follow.

This includes the redevelopment of the former vacant sawmill near Linkwood Road and revitalization work at Cooper Park.

Improvements to the park will include accessible walkways, biodiversity plantings, new seating and an improved pond.

The existing toilet block will be converted into new toilets and a café.

Meanwhile, the aim of Elgin’s central project is to boost the town’s evening economy by revitalizing derelict sites and supporting the creative arts with a new center in the former Gordon Arms Hotel on High Street.

It is also hoped that improved traffic control measures, accessibility and new café spaces will improve the area’s outdoor culture.

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