Elgin's town centre is set for a transformation with new homes and businesses.
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Transforming Elgin: New homes and vibrant shopping streets
Efforts are intensifying to breathe new life into Elgin’s town centre, with plans to convert vacant buildings into modern homes. This ambitious redevelopment aims to enhance the vibrancy of the shopping streets, making them more appealing to both residents and visitors alike.
New developments on South Street
Construction is set to commence early next year on a significant redevelopment project on South Street. This initiative will introduce a business hub, three retail units, and 38 residential flats distributed across five blocks, complete with a communal courtyard.
The project is a collaborative effort between Moray Council, Robertson Property Limited (RPL), and UHI Moray, all of whom are committed to revitalizing the area.
Supported by the Moray Growth Deal and bolstered by an £18.3 million investment from the Levelling Up Fund, this redevelopment is poised to make a substantial impact on the local economy. The project will involve the demolition of several notable structures, including the iconic Jailhouse nightclub and the Newmarket Bar, paving the way for modern living spaces.
Benefits of increased residential options
The introduction of one and two-bedroom flats is part of the Housing Mix Delivery project, which aims to address the pressing need for more housing in Elgin. Sarah Medcraf, chief executive of Moray Chambers of Commerce, expressed her enthusiasm for the new homes, highlighting that increased residential density in the town centre is likely to stimulate local commerce. “More residents mean more foot traffic, which translates to increased shopping and dining opportunities for local businesses,” she stated.
Local businessman Graeme MacKenzie, who previously owned the Junners toy shop, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the necessity for more town centre accommodation. He believes that the redevelopment will not only attract residents but also create a lively atmosphere throughout the day and night, countering concerns about Elgin becoming a “ghost town” after hours.
Encouraging a vibrant evening economy
Council officials have underscored the urgent need for additional businesses and housing to foster a thriving evening economy. Gary Templeton, the strategic planning and development manager, noted that the new flats on South Street are expected to enhance foot traffic and support local retailers. “We are actively encouraging more people to live in the town centre, which will contribute to a more dynamic and engaging environment,” he remarked.
In recent years, there has been a noticeable trend towards repurposing existing buildings in Elgin to accommodate more residents. For instance, Poundland has successfully created four flats above their new store on High Street, demonstrating the potential for mixed-use developments in the area. Additionally, plans have been submitted by Tulloch of Cummingston to transform the former Johnston Carmichael headquarters on South Street into residential apartments, further contributing to the town’s revitalization.
