Forres Leanchoil Hospital plans submitted to Moray Council
A ‘trailblazer’ move to turn a former hospital into a community hub for people of all ages has reached a major milestone.
Draft proposals to convert Leanchoil Hospital in Forres have been submitted this week to Moray Council, ahead of a detailed planning application which is expected later this year.
The unique building on St Leonards Road and its grounds are set to offer a wide range of activities and services to the local community.
The proposals include health and wellbeing facilities, a café and a maths and science classroom for young children.
In addition, a new building will be constructed to provide supported accommodation for older people and those of all ages with additional needs.
Meanwhile, the Scottish Ambulance Service station will also remain at the site.
Marianne Nicolson, chair of the Leanchoil trustees, said that agreeing the draft proposals at a meeting this week was a big day for the trust and its supporters.
She added: “Getting to this stage means we are making tangible progress towards our goal.
“There is still a long way to go and we will need a big injection of cash – about £4million – to realise the final vision we have for Leanchoil.
“However, this shows we are on our way. The recent withdrawal of Erskine Veterans Charity from the project means we now have more space and can better mould the premises to the needs of the local area, which is reflected in our latest plans.
“I believe this project will become a trailblazer across the UK for repurposing large redundant buildings for community use.”
LDN are the architects for the project, while Hannover Scotland will be building the supported accommodation.
Funding has been secured so far from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, The Pilgrim Trust and Scottish Land Fund, Architectural Heritage Fund, Berry Burn Community Fund, and Crown Estates.
Leanchoil Hospital was built in 1892 with funding from the Forres-born businessman and philanthropist Lord Strathcona and local subscriptions.
Supporters say the quality of the original construction means the building is structurally in generally excellent condition, giving more options for the re-purposing of the interior.
Should planning consent be agreed, work could start on site in the spring of 2026.
