Transfer of Clovenside Cemetery car park to Forres Baptist Church following public consultation
Moray Council has approved the transfer of land at Clovenside Cemetery in Forres, including the car park currently leased by William Purves Funeral Directors Ltd, to Forres Baptist Church, following an extensive public consultation.
The land, part of the Forres Common Good, has been leased since 2002 and sub-let to Forres Baptist Church since 2021. The church expressed an interest in buying the land outright to secure its long-term plans for community services. After careful consideration and public consultation, the Council has agreed to the sale. The funds from the sale will be credited to the Forres Common Good Fund to support local projects.
A public consultation ran for 10 weeks from April to June 2025 and was widely publicised through local media, social channels, and community venues. 106 responses were received, with 83.96% in favour of the proposal.
Supportive comments highlighted the Baptist Church’s role in providing vital community services such as food banks, drop-in sessions, and events.
While some concerns were raised on continuing access to the cemetery and parking availability, Moray Council reassures residents that access to Clovenside Cemetery and use of the car park for interments will remain unchanged.
The sale agreement includes retained rights for the council to maintain the cemetery and ensure continued parking provision for visitors.
The transfer will secure the church’s ability to continue and expand its community work; provide a financial gain for the Forres Common Good Fund, which will be invested in local priorities; and reduce future risks or the council associated with vacant property liabilities.
Chair of Moray Council Corporate Committee, Cllr Marc Marae, said: “This decision reflects strong community support and safeguards both the interests of cemetery visitors and the long-term benefits for Forres through the Common Good Fund. I wish the Forres Baptist Church well in continuing its role in supporting local people.”
A spokesperson from Forres Baptist Church added: “We are delighted to secure the future of our premises and continue serving the Forres community. Owning the site gives us the stability to expand our outreach programmes and maintain the property for the benefit of everyone. We appreciate the overwhelming support shown from the community during the consultation.”