The people of Elgin are being asked to share their views on a series of proposed traffic changes that could transform the heart of the town.
Moray Council has unveiled a package of plans aimed at making Elgin town centre safer, greener and more accessible for everyone.
The proposals form part of the £18.3 million Levelling Up Fund investment, which promises to breathe new life into the area with better walking and cycling routes, improved public spaces and a more welcoming environment for visitors and locals alike.
At the centre of the plans are several key changes designed to strike a balance between modern transport needs and preserving the charm of the town.
New disabled parking bays would be created in more convenient locations to make access easier for those who need it most.
Rise and fall bollards are proposed to prevent unauthorised vehicles from entering pedestrian zones, protecting walkers while still allowing essential access for deliveries and emergency services at specific times.
The council is also looking at introducing one-way systems on Moss Street and Greyfriars Street.
This would free up space for dedicated cycle lanes and wider pavements, giving pedestrians and cyclists more room to move comfortably and safely through the town centre.
Changes to waiting restrictions, loading bays and taxi ranks are also on the table, all aimed at improving traffic flow while creating more space for outdoor hospitality and street life.
The new bollards would operate between 11am and 4pm on key streets including the Plainstones, Thunderton Place, Batchen Street and Commerce Street.
During these hours, only deliveries and emergency services would have vehicle access, leaving the streets clearer and more pleasant for pedestrians.
On Commerce Street, some existing parking bays would be replaced with new disabled spaces to ensure accessibility remains a top priority as walking and cycling routes expand.
Moray Council is keen to ensure that residents and businesses have every opportunity to contribute to the plans.
A public information event will take place in the town centre on 12 July 2025, offering locals the chance to learn more about the proposed changes, explore other projects funded by the Levelling Up Fund and share their feedback.
Details of the event will be published in the coming weeks.
Further consultation will follow later in the summer as the council refines its proposals based on the feedback received.
If the plans are approved, work could begin as early as spring 2026, with completion expected the following year.
Councillor Marc Macrae, Chair of Moray Council’s Economic Development and Infrastructure Services Committee, encouraged the community to get involved.
He said it was a rare opportunity to shape the future of Elgin for generations to come.
“This is a fantastic chance to make Elgin town centre safer, greener and more inviting for everyone,” he said.
“These changes will help revitalise the area, support local businesses and encourage more people to walk and cycle.
“I would urge everyone to take part in the consultation and help us create the town centre we all want to see.”
