Large crowd backs plans for Tolbooth heritage facility

THE PUBLIC turned out in force for an open meeting held on Wednesday night to display plans by Forres Heritage Trust, to progress the Tolbooth project.

Experts drafted in to design plans and complete a feasibility study revealed work they have done so far to progress the project.

The audience heard that the best solution to ensure the long term survival of the building wwhich is central to Forrse High Street, could possibly be for a mixed use project focusing on commercial, heritage and tourism use.

Mia Scott from the Highland Building Preservation Trust and architect, Tom Duff gave up to date information on how they could restore the building with an emphasis on long term sustainable use.

Chair of Forres Heritage Trust, John Mackenzie said that "Forres is different" which was borne out by the great support he has received with people showing "great enthusiasm" for the project, which was demonstrated at a drop-in event held on Saturday at the Tolbooth.

"We had a lot of people coming to see round the building," he said. "Everyone was very supportive of what we are doing."

Teams of volunteers gave guided tours around the maze of buildings, throughout the day, and around £400 was raised towards the project.

Mr Mackenzie added that such was the success of the open day that another one is planned in the near future.