Findrassie masterplan approved by Moray councillors

A masterplan which will see a major northward expansion of Elgin over the next two decades has been approved by Moray councillors.

The blueprint for Findrassie has been prepared by the landowner, Pitgaveny Estate, in partnership with Moray Council and provides for around 1500 new homes in addition to land which will be developed for business.

The plans for the 112 hectare site, which stretches from Duffus Road in the west to Lossiemouth Road in the east, will now go out for public consultation.

The masterplan incorporates elements such as:

• A central spine of open space or park runningeast to west and containing features such as an amphitheatre, sports pitches and allotments
• A range of housing densities and housing types from starter to family to retirement homes and self-build plots
• A centrally located school incorporating provision for community facilities with opportunities for outdoor learning
• A local hub with potential for a farm shop, incubator units and other commercial uses such as a nursery, with further provision for commercial units around the central open space
• Focal points and landmarks at key locations and a number of character areas with distinctive features which will help people find their way around and identify with the development
• Integration of employment, residential and commercial development with good walking and cycling routes that are safe and pleasant
• Recreational assets such as Findrassie woods and a large area of multi-use open space

All of the elements will help to create a new neighbourhood with its own identity and character where people will be able to live their entire lives.

The masterplan has been approved by Moray Council’s planning and regulatory services committee and the public consultation will run from Monday, August 31 to Friday, October 9.

It can be viewed on the council’s website at www.moray.gov.uk/Findrassie or at council headquarters in Elgin or at Elgin library.

Comments should be made using the response form provided online, by email to Localdevelopmentplan@moray.gov.uk or in writing to Moray Council, Development Plans, PO Box 6760, Elgin IV30 9BX.

Moray Council area stretches from Tomintoul in the south to the shores of the Moray Firth, from Keith in the east to Forres in the west. The council and its 4,500 employees respond to the needs of 92,500 residents in this beautiful part of Scotland, which nestles between Aberdeenshire and the Highlands.

Famous for its colony of dolphins, fabulous beaches and more malt whisky distilleries than any where else in Scotland, Moray is a thriving area and a great place to live.

Headquartered in  Elgin, the administrative capital of Moray.