New partnership approach approved to support the future of Grant Park

The Council will work collaboratively with the proposed ‘Friends of Grant Park’ organisation to support the future enhancement and sustainability of Grant Park. The new organisation would be developed to represent community interests, local stakeholders and park users, with support from Forres Events Limited during the initial development stage 

In 1924, Sir Alexander Grant gifted money to preserve the former grounds of Forres House for the people of Forres as a public park and recreation ground. Grant Park is currently held by Moray Council as trustee through the Grant Park Public Trust. The park is a key community asset, hosting recreational activities, sporting events, cultural celebrations and community gatherings throughout the year. 

The approved approach follows community engagement last year, which highlighted strong local support for the park, while also identifying opportunities for improvements to facilities and infrastructure. A public meeting held in May 2026 confirmed support for establishing a Friends of Grant Park group to help coordinate community involvement, fundraising and future improvement ideas.  

Under the proposed model, the Friends of Grant Park organisation would be a community-led charitable body representing park users, community organisations and local stakeholders. Existing ownership and trustee arrangements would remain unchanged, with Moray Council continuing to act as Trustee and remaining responsible for the park’s management and maintenance. 

The committee's decision gives officers authority to explore partnership options in more detail, including governance arrangements and funding opportunities. Any formal agreement or future improvement proposals will be brought back to committee for approval.  

Chair of the Corporate Committee, Cllr Marc Macrae, said: “Grant Park is one of Forres' most valued community assets and plays an important role in the life of the town. This potential new partnership approach recognises the strong local enthusiasm for the park and creates an opportunity for the community, the council and local partners to work together to support its future. 

“Importantly, this is about building on existing arrangements, not replacing them. The council will continue to fulfil its responsibilities as trustee and manager of the park while exploring how community involvement and external funding can help enhance this much-loved space for future generations.” 

Joanna Taylor, a Director of Forres Events Ltd, added: “We are delighted that the committee has supported this next step. People in Forres care deeply about Grant Park and want to see it continue to thrive while protecting the character and green space that makes it special.” 

Further discussions will now take place between Moray Council, community representatives and local stakeholders to develop detailed proposals for the establishment of the Friends of Grant Park organisation.