Ground clearance has officially begun on the South Street regeneration project in Elgin, marking a significant step forward in this major development.

The £18 million project is a collaborative effort between Moray Council, Robertson Property Ltd (RPL), Moray Growth Deal, and UHI Moray. Funded through the Levelling Up Fund, the initial phase involves clearing several properties on South Street and Elgin High Street, including former shops and derelict buildings. Notably, the facade from the old market will be preserved.

The South Street regeneration project is part of two key Moray Growth Deal initiatives:

• Housing Mix Delivery: This project, funded by £7.2 million from the Scottish Government and Moray Council, will see an investment of £1.7 million in South Street to deliver 38 affordable one- and two-bedroom flats, helping to address the region's housing needs.

• Business Enterprise Hub: This state-of-the-art 800 square meter facility, subject to final approval, aims to foster business innovation and entrepreneurship. It will offer flexible workspace accessible to both businesses and students. Funding for the hub is expected to include contributions from the Scottish Government, Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), and the Elgin Long Term Town Plan (ELTTP). However, ELTTP funding is still under review.

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In addition to housing and the business hub, the development will create opportunities for three commercial retail units and improved public spaces, enhancing the connection between South Street and the High Street.

The enabling works are expected to continue over the next few months, with construction anticipated to begin by summer 2025.

To minimize disruption to the local business community during construction, a dedicated contact person will be available to address concerns, and regular project updates will be provided to the public.

Welcoming the launch of the project, Chair of Moray Council's Economic Development and Infrastructure Services Committee, Cllr Marc Macrae, said: "This regeneration project is set to breathe new life into Elgin's town centre. By creating modern housing, fostering innovative business opportunities, and revitalising public spaces, we're ensuring a brighter future for the community.

"This project demonstrates the benefits of collaborative working, showcasing how strong partnerships can drive meaningful change. It's fantastic to see with our own eyes this ambitious project come to life, and I'm eager to follow its progress in the months ahead as I know many locals will too."

Elliot Robertson, Chief Executive Officer, Robertson Group, added: "This regeneration project will deliver lasting positive change in Elgin, creating new opportunities that enhance the town's appeal as a vibrant place to live, work and visit for generations to come.

"This milestone marks an important step toward the transformation of South Street, fostering local employment and driving economic growth. As a company founded in Elgin, we are deeply connected to this community, and it's especially meaningful for us to collaborate with Moray Council, and UHI Moray to bring this ambitious vision to life."

David Patterson, UHI Moray Principal and Senior Responsible Officer (Business Enterprise Hub), also said: "UHI Moray is delighted to be a key part of this exciting new development in the heart of Elgin.

"This new facility and new resource will allow us to make a step-change in our work here with local partners in Moray to enable local businesses to grow and develop through training, research and advice services."