A major funding boost is set to breathe new life into the historic heart of Forres.
Almost £1.8 million has been awarded to the Forres Conservation and Heritage Scheme, unlocking a wave of regeneration plans.
The scheme will receive £790,000 from the National Lottery Heritage Fund and £980,000 from Historic Environment Scotland.
Combined with earlier investments, the total funding package now stands at a significant £3.3 million.
This financial injection paves the way for a wide range of heritage and conservation projects across the town.
Grants will be made available to property owners to repair and restore traditional buildings and shopfronts.
Training in traditional building skills will be offered to businesses, alongside workshops for local property owners.
Public spaces, closes and lanes will benefit from aesthetic and structural improvements.
Plans include the creation of a dedicated Heritage Quarter in collaboration with community partners.
Cluny Hill and surrounding green spaces will also receive upgrades and increased planting.
A community garden initiative is part of the strategy to improve the overall conservation area.
Vacant buildings will be explored for potential new uses to revitalise empty spaces.
Local history will be shared through innovative platforms, including a new audio trail and digital photo archive.
An online exhibition is planned to further connect locals and visitors to Forres’ rich past.
The scheme is designed not only to conserve but to connect, with a strong focus on social engagement and wellbeing.
It is the first of eight heritage-led improvement projects across Scotland to be approved for funding.
Many of the included proposals were born from community input over the past year.
Cllr Kathleen Robertson, Council Leader and Forres Ward member, hailed the scheme as a turning point.
She praised the town’s heritage and said the funding would offer a much-needed boost.
Chair of the Partnership Management Group, George Alexander, highlighted the sense of energy driving the project.
He welcomed the diverse opportunities for community involvement and cultural connection.
Susan O’Connor of Historic Environment Scotland said the scheme would revitalise the historic fabric of Forres.
She noted the project’s commitment to blending tradition with wellbeing and innovation.
Caroline Clark of The National Lottery Heritage Fund emphasised the role of heritage in strengthening local identity.
She underlined the long-term benefits the scheme could deliver for economic and social regeneration.
With funds secured and enthusiasm running high, the transformation of Forres is now ready to begin.
