Forres Local 
An unauthorised encampment of ‘travellers’ has moved in at the former Leanchoil Hospital on St Leonard’s Road. Several vans and caravans appeared this morning (Thursday 5 September) in front of the building, which is currently out of use, and awaiting planning permission for conversion into a multi-generational activity centre by the Leanchoil Trust. However, the … Read more
People who want to experience the freedom of swimming naked in the open sea, can now do so, following the announcement of an event, organised by British Naturism. A warning sign – or an advert – depending on how you look at it – has appeared on Findhorn Beach, about a ‘skinny dip’ happening there … Read more
A high street shop which has stood the test of time will close at the end of the month, after more than a quarter of a century in the town centre. Sheena’s has long been a valued retail outlet for underwear, lingerie, hosiery and nightwear for 26 years, but the time has come for owner … Read more
A new statue celebrating the life of one of Forres’s most famous sons, has been unveiled in Grant Park. The tribute to Sir Alexander Grant marks 100 years since he gifted the park to the people of Forres, and shows a carved effigy of his head and shoulders, with insets featuring snapshots of his life. … Read more
New plans for the former Leanchoil Hospital have been submitted to Moray Council following the departure of Erskine as a partner. Moves to re-purpose a former hospital into a community hub for health and wellbeing reached a major milestone this week. Described as a ‘trailblazer’ for similar projects across the UK, draft plans for the … Read more
Automata experts from Forres have been invited to a glitzy festival in Venice to demonstrate their skills. Michael and Maria Start from the House of Automata in Forres are flying out to La Biennale di Venezia on the exotic island of San Giorgio Maggiore from 10 to 13 September. The festival is a celebration of … Read more
The Forres Conservation and Heritage Scheme has completed its development phase and is applying for a five-year investment funding programme worth £3.3m. This place-based regeneration initiative aims to conserve, repair and enhance the historic character of the Forres Conservation Area, which will place heritage at the centre of local town centre regeneration and stimulate investment. … Read more
A Forres company specialising in solar panels has acquired another big name in heating systems, making it one of the biggest renewable energy companies in Scotland AES Solar has today (9 August 2024) announced the acquisition of Black Isle Renewables. Established in 2010, the Dingwall-based company installs high-quality ground source and air source heat pumps … Read more
More than 20 members of staff at Forres company AES Solar are gearing up for a sponsored bike ride to raise funds for health and wellbeing charity The Oxygen Works. The team will set off from either Aviemore, Grantown or Aberlour alongside friends and family en route to the finish line at Spey Bay on 31 … Read more
A new farm shop selling a wide and varied range of local produce and crafts has opened in Rafford. Marcassie Farm Shop, which is just before the village as you head out of Forres towards Dallas, will cater to a mix of locals, tourists and anyone that enjoys locally-made fare. The new outlet is run … Read more