The imposing house on Prospect Terrace sits in a large plot and enjoys commanding views of the town and East Beach.

Since being left empty more than 20 years ago the house has been targeted by vandals and used by squatters, while windows have been either smashed or boarded up.

After a fire tore through its roof in 2015, Moray Council served a demolition order on the ruined building, but could not trace the current owner – believed to be a US resident.

Residents and councillors have long called for action to be taken over the property, but years of legal wrangling to establish ownership has prevented any steps to be taken – until now.

Given the dangerous condition of the property and no response from the current owner, the council compulsorily purchased the house and it is now on the open market.

Although only released through estate agents this week, enquiries have been flooding in.

Offers over £150,000 are invited, with a closing date of January 15 2021.