Elgin Town Hall is a key site within the Cultural Quarter project, part of Moray’s £100 million Growth Deal. The total estimated capital costs for the Cultural Quarter are £28.2m, which includes funding for both Elgin Town Hall and Grant Lodge. Of this, £22.2m has been committed through the Moray Growth Deal. The redevelopment of Elgin Town Hall is Phase One and is fully funded within this allocation.

The Cultural Quarter project is funded through £12.7m from the Scottish Government, £3.5m from the UK Government, £3.9m from Moray Council, and £2m from Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE).

Working with advocates and partners such as The Grant Lodge Trust, the team will explore options to secure additional investment for Grant Lodge, Phase Two, from a number of external sources over the next 24 months whilst Elgin Town Hall is on site.

This next phase of the project aims to revitalise the historic venue, enhancing its role as a central hub for culture and community activities. The redevelopment will transform the space into a modern, accessible facility that accommodates a diverse range of events, including performances, exhibitions, and community gatherings.

Elgin Town Hall is a Category B listed building, meaning the redevelopment will require careful consideration to preserve its historic features while integrating contemporary design elements to meet current and future needs.

In 2023, Moray Council appointed LDN Architects to lead the design phase of Elgin Town Hall. Working closely with Elgin Town Hall for the Community, their staff, customers and users, LDN Architects developed designs, which were displayed at a public drop-in event in August 2024. Planning permission and listed building consent was given in November 2024.

The selected contractor will be responsible for completing the construction work in line with these approved plans.

The tender is available on Public Contract Scotland (reference MAR526371) with a submission deadline of 30 April 2025.

Moray Council’s chair of the economic development and infrastructure services committee, Councillor Marc Macrae, said: “The redevelopment of Elgin Town Hall is a significant step forward in our commitment to enhancing cultural infrastructure in Moray. This project will not only preserve a beloved historic building but also create a versatile space that meets the evolving needs of our community. We encourage qualified contractors to participate in this opportunity to contribute to Moray’s vibrant cultural landscape.

“The Cultural Quarter project also includes the future redevelopment of Grant Lodge, collectively aiming to enhance Moray’s appeal as a destination for residents and visitors alike.”