Elgin is set to embark on a significant regeneration programme, with 17 projects across the town now confirmed to receive a share of a £20 million investment from the UK Government.
The funding, initially awarded in 2023 under former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to support “run-down towns”, has been rebranded by the current Labour administration as the “Pride in Place” scheme, aimed at empowering local communities to shape their future.
The comprehensive plan for the capital injection was submitted to the UK Government for approval in November 2025, with full endorsement confirmed in March 2026. This investment, spread over the next decade, represents a strategic commitment to enhancing Elgin’s vibrancy and economic prospects.
The allocation of funds follows an extensive public consultation, managed by the newly established Elgin Neighbourhood Board. Comprising representatives from community groups, local businesses, and the council, the board received over 1,000 suggestions from residents on how the money could best serve the town.
Jenny Urquhart, Chairwoman of the Elgin Neighbourhood Board, articulated the ambitious vision for the town:
“As a community we will make Elgin a vibrant place to live, work, visit and invest in. By 2035 we want Elgin to be recognised as a thriving regional centre and the heart of Moray. Our vision is one where the town centre is clean, attractive, and filled with shops, cafes, events and enterprise.”
Key projects set to benefit from the investment include:
Business Enterprise Hub: A new UHI Moray campus on South Street, located at the former Junners toy shop site, will provide essential support for new and growing businesses, offering hot-desking, meeting rooms, and digital facilities.
Central Elgin Redevelopment: This extensive project involves the demolition of the former Junners buildings to make way for the Business Enterprise Hub, three new retail units on South Street, and 38 one and two-bedroom flats where the Newmarket Bar and Jailhouse nightclub once stood.
Elgin Anti-Social Behaviour Project: Addressing rising concerns, particularly around the bus station area following the tragic death of bus driver Keith Rollinson in February 2024, this partnership between police, Moray Council, and local groups will include initiatives like the mobile ‘Aye Bus’ to engage with young people.
New Athletics Track: The funding will support the development of a modern athletics facility, addressing long-standing concerns from Elgin Amateur Athletics Club that current facilities at Morriston playing fields are hindering young athletes. Moray is currently the only region in Scotland without a synthetic running track.
Public Facilities and Shelter at Gleaner Arena: Improvements are planned for the Elgin Sports Community Trust’s Gleaner Arena, which opened in 2021, to provide better shelter and facilities for spectators.
Cooper Park Enhancements: This includes an upgrade to the Cooper Park pavilion and the installation of a new bicycle pump track, a type of facility that has shown success in reducing anti-social behaviour in other areas.
Grant Lodge Restoration: Funds will contribute to the ongoing efforts to reopen Grant Lodge, a significant Elgin landmark that has been closed since a fire in 2003. Planning permission has been secured to transform it into a food and drink-inspired tourist attraction with event spaces and a cafe.
Community Hall Improvements: Studies will be conducted to identify beneficial investments for the volunteer-run New Elgin and Bishopmill halls.
South Lesmurdie Park Masterplan: Edinburgh-based rankinfraser landscape architecture has been appointed to develop a revitalisation masterplan for the park.
Seagull Deterrents: To maintain the town centre’s appeal, measures such as seagull-proof bins and existing sonic scarers are being considered to address concerns raised during consultations.
Link Community Hub: This New Elgin venue, which opened in late 2024, will receive support to continue providing a space for various community groups and activities.
Alternative Curriculum at Gleaner Arena: The Elgin Sports Community Trust plans to offer alternative qualifications focused on areas like coaching and refereeing for young people outside mainstream education.
Shaping Skills From The Start: A curriculum project designed to equip young people with specific skills to enhance future employability.
In Case You Missed it:
Nature and Nurture Project: This initiative aims to improve biodiversity across Elgin, with work planned for Cooper Park and other green spaces.
Capital Grant Scheme:A dedicated fund will be established to support community groups and third-sector organisations with significant one-off purchases.
These projects underscore a concerted effort to foster a stronger, more attractive, and economically robust Elgin for its residents and visitors.
