Moray SNP News

LOCHHEAD TO MEET WITH POUNDLAND OVER ELGIN STORE RE-BUILD

Richard Lochhead MSP is seeking a meeting with senior representatives from Poundland to discuss works to rebuild its store on Elgin High Street and the progress being made in completing the project.

Mr Lochhead recently received an update from Poundland confirming that the deconstruction of the existing dangerous building is now completed and that work is now beginning on the re-build. Poundland representatives told Moray’s MSP that covid has impacted on timescales but the firm aim to have the project complete by winter next year.

Poundland’s Chief Financial Officer has agreed to meet with Richard Lochhead to discuss the works to rebuild the Elgin High Street store.

Commenting Mr Lochhead said:

“I recently wrote to Poundland for an update on the works to rebuild its Elgin High Street store, as I know the completion of this project is a priority for local businesses and residents based in the town centre.

“Poundland confirmed that the deconstruction of the existing building has been completed after the pandemic caused some delays, and the project team will now start working on the re-build with the aim of completing the project by next winter.

“As well as delivering a new retail space, I’m told that the new building will include apartments to bring back residential living to the upper levels for the first time since the 1920s, which is to be welcomed.

“I’m also pleased that Poundland are using local contractors, suppliers and consultants to lead and deliver the rebuild and I look forward to meeting senior representatives to discuss the project in more detail.

“I know that the timescales for this project and the disruption caused is a serious concern for many high street businesses and residents and I will be discussing all of those issues with Poundland when we meet. I will also continue to discuss with the Moray Council what can be done to support the town centre to ensure the impact is minimised between now and completion next year.”