Construction works to start for new Forres Academy

The new school campus is planned to open to pupils in autumn 2028 and will provide modern learning facilities for up to 1,120 pupils, including 40 enhanced additional support needs spaces, alongside a new 3G sports pitch and improved outdoor spaces.

The next phase of work will include two key areas. The first will be drainage works on Albert Street, Castle Street and Orchard Road, where a new surface water drain will be installed between the new Forres Academy site and the Mosset Burn from Monday 22 June 2026. These works are expected to last around 10 weeks, and will be delivered in phases, with traffic management in place, including temporary traffic lights, road closures and signed diversion routes.

Phase One of the drainage works will include a temporary footpath closure on the north side of Orchard Road, with pedestrians directed to the south side, as well as road closures on sections of Burdshaugh Road and Strathcona Road.

Phase Two will include temporary traffic lights, while Phase Three will include a road closure in two stages along Albert Street, first from the junction of Castle Street and Albert Street to Cicely Place, and then from Cicely Place along Albert Street.

This phased approach is intended to help minimise disruption and keep residents, pedestrians and road users safe. Local households have been made aware of the potential disruption directly.

The second will be highway improvement works on Orchard Road, scheduled to begin on Monday 29 June and expected to last around eight weeks. This will include construction of the new school entrance and changes to the footpath on Orchard Road.

During the highway improvement 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 also be in place and managed using cones.

Access to all properties on Orchard Road will be maintained throughout the construction period. The temporary restriction relates only to waiting and parking and will not prevent vehicles from accessing 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 monitor the arrangements and minimise disruption. Should any issues or concerns arise, residents can contact the Balfour Beatty team at ForresAcademyBB@balfourbeatty.com.

Information about the planned construction works, including drawings showing the works and traffic management arrangements, is available to view on Moray Engage. A printed copy is also available at Forres Community Centre.