External funding brings major investment boost for Moray communities

The latest update shows significant success in attracting funding, alongside plans to invest further in community projects, coastal areas and town centres. 

Key highlights of the work going in across the council include: 

• Over £3.1 million in new funding applications are being prepared to support major community regeneration projects in Dufftown and Forres.  

• £133,000 already awarded to nine community projects through the first round of the Coastal Communities Fund with £170,700 secured for 2025/26. £100,000 is set to be distributed in a new round of grants and the remainder held for future strategic investment.  

• £3.3 million investment programme underway in Forres, supporting conservation, heritage and town centre improvements. 

• £4.3 million UK Shared Prosperity Fund programme delivered between 2022 and 2025, with a further £1.4 million supporting projects through to September 2026. 

The Council plans to act as lead applicant for two major community-led projects requesting funding from the Regeneration Capital Grant Fund (RCGF): Dufftown Clock Tower redevelopment; and Leanchoil Hospital transformation into a health and wellbeing hub. 

The first round of the Moray Coastal Communities Fund supported practical local projects including accessible beach equipment, community facilities, tourism activities and infrastructure upgrades.  

A second round will open in summer 2026, giving local groups the opportunity to apply for grants of up to £50,000 for projects that improve coastal areas, support climate action and strengthen communities. 

The Forres Conservation and Heritage Scheme is now in its delivery phase, supporting building repairs, public space improvements and community heritage projects, with work progressing across the town.  

Funding is being used to develop walking and cycling routes, improve visitor facilities and support sustainable tourism across Moray, with further funding bids under consideration.  

External funding continues to play a vital role in delivering projects that improve local facilities, support jobs and boost the economy without placing additional pressure on council budgets.  

The committee also noted the need to manage risks such as funding uncertainty, match funding requirements and delivery capacity to ensure projects are completed successfully.  

Chair of the Economic Development and Infrastructure Services Committee, Cllr Marc Macrae, said: “This report shows the real difference external funding is making in Moray. From improving our town centres and coastline to supporting jobs and community projects, these investments are helping create stronger, more resilient communities. 

“We’re particularly pleased to see new funding opportunities coming forward, while also making the most of the resources already secured to deliver lasting benefits across Moray.” 

Grants summary 

Coastal Communities Fund – Round One awards 

Major funding programmes (overview) 

Next steps 

• Submission of regeneration funding applications by June 2026 

• Launch of Coastal Communities Fund Round Two in summer 2026 

• Continued delivery of major programmes including Forres heritage and UKSPF projects