Leanchoil Update
Here we are already half way through January, and on behalf of the Leanchoil Trust Board members I hope that 2025 is going well for you. The past two months have seen good progress in that we have had a very positive pre-planning opinion from Moray Council that facilitates our onward march to full planning application. There are many surveys that are required before then, and work is ongoing in that regard.
Last week we had confirmation that Hanover Scotland has agreed terms with Robertson Property for progression to the next stage of planning for rebuilding the old maternity unit. Again, the background work has been substantial and the importance of our partners’ confidence is most encouraging.
We are continuing discussions with the Scottish Ambulance Service, Forres Health Centre, STEM and others to plan the interior of the main Leanchoil building, assisting architects LDN to produce a draft of rooms and specialist spaces that are required. While focusing on the main building and Hanover’s supported living section, we are grateful for financial support received from Berry Burn Community Fund for a feasibility report on development of the old Nurses’ Home.
We really hope that the momentum can be maintained. There has been significant deterioration to the interiors of Leanchoil, which is to be expected given the time that has elapsed since the hospital was closed. The Leanchoil Trust website will keep you informed of progress between newsletters, and we look forward to seeing all of you at a further public engagement event in the Spring.
Thank you, as always, for your ongoing support.
With warm regards,
Marianne Nicolson
Chair, Leanchoil Trust