Essential drainage investigation work will begin at Cooper Park pond in Elgin from Monday 7 July, as part of wider plans to enhance the town’s central green space.
Moray Council has awarded the contract to Pat Munro (Alness) Ltd, with the initial works expected to last around two weeks.
Specialist cameras will be used to inspect drainage pipes and chambers beneath the pond, which help control the flow of water in and out of the site.
These pipes, which run beneath the A941 and connect to the River Lossie, will be cleaned to remove any blockages and improve water flow.
Two small exploratory holes, known as trial pits, will also be dug to better understand the pond’s structure and lining.
One of the pits will be located next to a damaged section of the pond wall, which will be carefully dismantled for inspection and later rebuilt once investigations are complete.
The work is part of a wider regeneration effort supported by the UK Government’s Levelling Up Fund, focused on infrastructure improvements in and around Elgin town centre.
Resurfacing of the footpath leading to the park pavilion is also expected to begin in August, with further updates to follow.
Cllr Marc Macrae, Chair of Moray Council’s Economic Development and Infrastructure Services Committee, welcomed the progress.
“This is another welcome step forward in the delivery of improvements at Cooper Park as part of our Levelling Up Fund investment,” he said.
“These initial investigations are vital to inform the wider redevelopment plans and ensure we build on solid foundations, both literally and figuratively.”
He added that the drainage work is separate from ongoing efforts to address algae growth in the pond, which were reported earlier this week.
“Thank you to everyone for their patience and understanding while these essential works take place,” he said.
“I look forward to seeing further progress over the coming months as this much-loved park evolves to better serve our community and visitors alike.”
Cooper Park remains open to the public, and the council has advised that disruption will be kept to a minimum.
