Moray politicians have reacted with shock at the closure of a major shopping centre in the area.
Wednesday, January 8 witnessed a bolt from the blue when it emerged that the St Giles Centre in Elgin was set to close on January 20.
The St Giles Centre in Elgin could be closed by January 20. Inset: Moray Council leader Councillor Kathleen Robertson.
The news follows reports in November that Moray Council is taking legal action to retrieve hundreds of thousands of pounds in unpaid non-domestic rates – believed to be in the region of £750,000 – which has built up over a number of years.
The centre, which is owned by Aviemore-based Upland Developments, currently contains the likes of Argos, Ashers Bakery, EE, Ramsdens, Subway, Vodafone, Waterstones and WH Smith with many units vacant.
Moray SNP MSP Richard Lochhead said: “The closure of the St Giles’ Centre, just as work gets underway to rejuvenate the town centre, will come a blow to Elgin.
“It is unrealistic to give tenants less than two weeks’ notice of closure – businesses can’t be expected to deal with the staffing and stock issues caused by closure in such a short period of time.
“I’ve spoken to Moray Council, as well as Elgin BID who are seeking an urgent meeting with stakeholders, and I plan to speak with the owner of the St Giles’ Centre too. It is vital that all interested parties and agencies work together to keep these big retailers in Elgin and protect jobs.”
Moray West, Nairn and Strathspey MP Graham Leadbitter spoke of the need for a cross-party effort “at all levels” to mitigate the blow to jobs and the local economy.
He continued: “The first priority has to be to ensure no-one’s employment is affected by this closure, and that the retailers in the St Giles Centre can find a way to continue operating in the town.
“This is a real blow for Elgin and the wider area, and it will take cross-party efforts at every level of government to find a solution that can create a positive outcome for the town.
“I stand ready to do what I can in my role as the local MP to support the people and businesses affected, and to work with others to find that outcome.”
Moray Council leader Councillor Councillor Kathleen Robertson (Forres, Conservative) said that despite the closure announcement representing a huge blow for the region, it nevertheless should not be seen as the “end of the road” for the regeneration of Elgin.
She said: “It’s a hugely disappointing situation to be in, that could have been avoided, and my thoughts are with employees and businesses facing uncertain times and the extremely short notice provided.
“The council acts as an agent to collect NDR and had to make the decision to pursue the debts owed in recognition of fairness to all businesses.
“Elgin town centre has the potential to be a thriving hub of activity and the planned investment through the Moray Growth Deal and Levelling Up Fund will support the community to continue regeneration efforts. We must not see the current situation with the St Giles Centre as the end of the road for Elgin’s regeneration.”
The chairman of the local authority’s Economic Development and Infrastructure Services Committee, Councillor Marc Macrae (Fochabers-Lhanbryde, Conservative), added: “This is very disappointing news, given efforts over considerable time to try and assist the centre through difficult times.
“Thoughts are with the many staff of the centre and the retailers who have had this news sprung upon them so soon after the festive holidays. I can assure you that both councillors and council officers will work with all relevant organisations to assist wherever possible.”