The council commissioned a design team led by Collective Architecture last year to draw up proposals for a new housing development on the grounds of the former hospital.

The building located on Duffus Road was built in 1933 and has since been demolished with clearance works now complete on the site.

It is hoped that the development can help with the 3,500-strong council housing waiting list.

Planning documents have revealed that the development will have a “unique and contemporary design that relates well to Elgin and traditional building types”.

The development will also preserve as many existing mature trees and woodland as possible to “provide a strong landscape backdrop” for the housing estate, The Press and Journal reports. 

Despite the site being targeted by vandals and subjected the graffiti over the years, the land has been described as a “desirable” area which will open up opportunities for the town.

In March, Moray Council held a drop-in session on plans for the future of the site, where residents were asked to weigh in with their opinions. The public can comment on the plans and lodge objections or letters of support. All the details can be viewed on the council’s website.