Major Elgin redevelopment gets go ahead from Moray Councillors
The plans will see several empty premises demolished to make way
Moray Councillors have given the go-ahead for a major redevelopment including flats and shops in Elgin town centre.
It also includes a business hub and pedestrian walkway to connect South Street with the High Street and it is part of the £100 million Moray Growth Deal.
It will be built over the former Jailhouse nightclub and Newmarket bar sites, as well as three other properties on South Street.
A total of 38 one and two bedroom affordable flats will be built across the site, which falls within the town’s conservation area.
Elgin North councillor Sandy Keith told a meeting of the planning committee he is pleased the plan will rejuvenate an “eyesore” in the town.
He said: “It’s good for the centre of Elgin with more people living there.
“And it will do up a derelict site.”
Mr Keith put forward a motion to approve the planning application, submitted by Robertson Property Limited.
It includes a request from fellow Elgin North member Amber Dunbar to make sure gull prevention measures and included in the development.
Councillor for Keith and Cullen Donald Gatt raised concerns over the colour of the outer finish of some of the buildings.
He said: “I would suggest white render is completely out of place in a conservation area.”
It was agreed that the developer will provide alternative colours for the finish.
With the exception of 53-55 South Street, which is occupied by a furniture shop, the other buildings involved have been empty for some time.
The Jailhouse has been closed since it was badly damaged by fire in the late 1990s.
All the buildings will be demolished to make way for the development, with the exception of a C listed archway at the entrance to the former Junners toy shop.