Historic Elgin cottages gifted by former MP welcome new resident
A significant chapter in Elgin's history has been reopened as the first resident of the 21st century moves into one of a pair of historic cottages at Ladyhill, properties originally gifted to the area in the aftermath of the First World War.
The two Category C-listed cottages were donated to the former City and Royal Burgh of Elgin in 1919 by the Right Honourable Sir Archibald Williamson. Known as Suvla and Messines, they are named after battles of the Great War.
A former Member of Parliament for Moray and Nairn, Sir Archibald's bequest stipulated that the properties be held in trust for the benefit of “suitable persons,” with a preference for “ex-sailors, ex-soldiers, or ex-airmen of the national forces” – particularly those with ties to Morayshire or Nairnshire.
After nearly a century, the cottages have been renovated by Moray Council; bringing them up to modern standards, while preserving their historic charm.
The first tenant to benefit from this renovation is Shaun Moat, a former RAF serviceman who served at RAF Kinloss. Shaun has now moved into one of the cottages, which are located at the foot of Ladyhill, in the centre of Elgin.
He said he was delighted to move in: “I’m so grateful to be allocated this property, it’s such an iconic address within Elgin, and the garden – which is maintained by volunteers – is beautiful.
“My friends joke that I’m the ‘gatekeeper’ to Elgin Castle, which is just behind the cottage – I feel very fortunate to live here.”
Moray Council’s Armed Forces and Veterans’ Champion, Cllr Peter Bloomfield - who served in the RAF for over 45-years - added: “I’m delighted to see a former serviceman take residence in this historic property. It’s wonderful to see how Shaun has embraced the heritage of this cottage and made it his home.”
The properties, along with two additional homes on Victoria Road, had lain vacant for many years and were leased by their respective trusts to Moray Council for a minimum of 20 years as part of an agreement to fund their refurbishment from rental charges.
Vice-Chair of Moray Council’s Housing and Community Safety Committee, Donald Gatt - who served in the RAF for 23-years - said: “These properties represent a legacy of service and sacrifice, and I am incredibly pleased to see them provide homes for those who have served our country.”
The second property is currently undergoing renovation work, on view to housing a tenant in Spring 2025.
Contact Information
Moray Council Press Office
Notes to editors
Photo (Ladyhill 1): (from left to right) Cllr John Divers, Cllr Peter Bloomfield, Shaun Moat and Cllr Donald Gatt)
Suggested caption: Cllr John Divers, Cllr Peter Bloomfield and Cllr Donald Gatt present Shaun Moat with a gift box, as he moves into Sulva Cottage