Council agrees changes to Levelling Up Fund programme to further support Gordon Arms project
Moray Council has approved changes to its Levelling Up Fund (LUF) programme, allowing funding from a project that is no longer progressing to be redirected to support the continued transformation of the former Gordon Arms Hotel on the High Street into a new Creative Arts Centre.
The Council agreed to reallocate £500,000 from the Sawmill project, which will not proceed as originally proposed, to the Gordon Arms project. The change does not increase the overall £18.285 million Levelling Up Fund allocation for Elgin city centre regeneration.
The Levelling Up Fund programme continues to deliver a package of projects aimed at regenerating Elgin city centre, including improvements to Cooper Park, active travel and accessibility measures, flood mitigation works and the redevelopment of the former Gordon Arms Hotel.
As the Gordon Arms project has progressed through detailed design, further work has confirmed the need to ensure the building is fully accessible for public use. This includes providing lift access to the third floor and making associated changes to the building's layout, fire safety measures and mechanical and electrical systems.
Depute Leader of Moray Council, Cllr Amber Dunbar, said: “The Levelling Up Fund programme is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to invest in Elgin and create lasting benefits for residents, businesses and visitors. While it is disappointing that the Sawmill project cannot move forward as originally planned, reallocating this funding allows us to maximise the impact of the investment and maintain momentum on one of the programme's flagship projects.
"The Gordon Arms will breathe new life into a prominent town centre building and create an important cultural destination that will support regeneration, attract visitors and provide new opportunities for local people."
Chair of the Economic Development and Infrastructure Services Committee, Cllr Marc Macrae, added: “This decision ensures that accessibility remains at the heart of the Gordon Arms project. We want the Creative Arts Centre to be a welcoming and inclusive space that can be enjoyed by everyone. The additional investment will help make sure people of all ages and abilities can access the building and take part in the opportunities it will provide."