Construction is scheduled to start on Monday 22 June 2026. The new campus is expected to open in autumn 2028 and will provide modern facilities for up to 1,120 pupils, including 40 enhanced additional support needs places, together with a new 3G pitch and upgraded outdoor areas.

The next stage of activity comprises two main elements. First, drainage works on Albert Street, Castle Street and Orchard Road will install a new surface water drain between the school site and the Mosset Burn from Monday 22 June 2026. These works are planned to last around 10 weeks and will be phased with traffic management in place, including temporary traffic lights, road closures and signed diversion routes.

Phase One involves a temporary footpath closure on the north side of Orchard Road, with pedestrians redirected to the south side, and road closures on sections of Burdshaugh Road and Strathcona Road.

Phase Two will feature temporary traffic lights, while Phase Three will see a two-stage road closure along Albert Street: initially from the Castle Street/Albert Street junction to Cicely Place, then from Cicely Place along Albert Street.

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This phased approach is designed to limit disruption and keep residents, pedestrians and road users safe. Local households have been informed directly about potential impacts.

The second element will be highway improvements on Orchard Road, due to begin on Monday 29 June and expected to take around eight weeks. This includes constructing the new school entrance and making changes to the footpath on Orchard Road.

During these works, part of the footpath on the south side of Orchard Road will be closed, with pedestrians directed to use the footpath on the north side. A temporary "no waiting" restriction will be in place and managed with cones.

Access to all properties on Orchard Road will be maintained throughout the construction period. The temporary restriction applies only to waiting and parking and will not stop vehicles entering or leaving properties, including for business operations, deliveries or customer visits.

Moray Council Leader, Cllr Kathleen Robertson, said: "It's exciting to see the new Forres Academy project moving into the construction phase. This is a major investment in education for Forres and the surrounding area, and it will deliver a modern, high-quality learning environment for young people for years to come.

"We know construction works can bring some temporary disruption, particularly around local roads and access arrangements. We're grateful for the patience and understanding of residents, businesses, parents, carers and road users as this important work gets underway."

Moray Council and Balfour Beatty are working closely to oversee arrangements and minimise disruption. If any issues arise, residents can contact the Balfour Beatty team at [email protected].

Further information, including drawings and traffic management plans, is available on Moray Engage, with a printed copy at Forres Community Centre.