Moray Council has submitted a planning application to refurbish and regenerate Grant Lodge in Elgin, marking a major milestone in the delivery of the Cultural Quarter through the Moray Growth Deal.
The proposals would see the historic Grant Lodge building transformed into a heritage, tourism and events hub designed to serve both local people and visitors.
Plans have been prepared by a design team led by Page Park Architects, with the aim of breathing new life into one of Elgin’s most recognisable landmarks.
Since 2023, the project team has engaged with more than 600 people as part of an extensive consultation process to shape the future of Grant Lodge.
The regeneration forms part of the wider Cultural Quarter vision, which seeks to create a dynamic area celebrating Moray’s heritage, arts and community life.
Leader of Moray Council Kathleen Robertson said the planning submission represents a significant step forward for the town centre.
“The submission of this planning application is a major step forward in our commitment to revitalising Elgin’s town centre,” she said.
“Grant Lodge has long been a cherished landmark, and its regeneration will provide a focal point for culture and creativity, benefiting residents and visitors alike.”
The Cultural Quarter is a key element of the Moray Growth Deal, which is supported by £100 million of investment from the UK and Scottish Governments, Moray Council and regional partners.
Of that total, £21 million has been allocated specifically for Cultural Quarter projects across Elgin, including Grant Lodge.
Moray Council says the coordinated investment is intended to strengthen cultural infrastructure and support long term economic growth.
Page Park Architects said the project is rooted in using heritage as a driver for positive change.
“We’re thrilled to be leading the delivery of this transformative project at Grant Lodge,” the practice said.
“We believe deeply in celebrating the exemplar heritage in our unique towns and cities and using heritage as an agent for local change and regeneration.
“The ambition is to blend carefully restored heritage spaces with sensitive contemporary extensions to create flexible, high quality spaces for local, regional and national visitors.
“Grant Lodge will become a gateway to the region and a place to gather for occasions of all kinds.
“We’re excited for the doors of Grant Lodge to open once again and allow the community to feel ownership of a building that is much loved and holds fond memories to so many.”
Subject to planning approval and securing sufficient additional funding, construction work is expected to take place between 2027 and 2029.
Once complete, the regenerated building will provide flexible spaces for exhibitions, events, social and recreational activities.
Moray Council says Grant Lodge will play a central role in welcoming visitors while reconnecting the building with everyday community life.
The long term aim is for Grant Lodge to stand once again at the heart of Elgin, celebrating Moray’s heritage and serving future generations.
The planning application can be viewed here
For further information on the Moray Growth Deal and Cultural Quarter plans, visit MyMoray
