Business Support Grant launched for all St. Giles Centre businesses

Moray Council has launched a St. Giles Centre Emergency Business Support Grant to assist all businesses directly affected by the closure of the St. Giles Centre in Elgin.

The grant scheme is designed to help affected businesses remain in Elgin town centre by providing financial support for relocation, refurbishment, and operational adjustments. Developed by the Multi-Agency Emergency Task Force, which was formed in response to the closure announcement on 8 January, the initiative seeks to minimise disruption and sustain economic activity in the town centre.

Funding for the scheme has been secured through the UK Government's UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) under the Communities and Place theme, which supports town centre regeneration. Approved by the Moray Economic Partnership, a total of £250,000 has been made available from the UKSPF Communities and Place investment priority, with individual grants capped at £15,000 per business.

The task force includes representatives from the Federation of Small Businesses, Moray Council officers and councillors, Douglas Ross MSP, Richard Lochhead MSP, Graham Leadbitter MP, Skills Development Scotland, Elgin BID, Moray Chamber of Commerce, Business Gateway, and Highlands and Islands Enterprise. Collectively, they have been working to support affected businesses and employees, facilitating relocation efforts and promoting initiatives to enhance town centre vibrancy.

Support sessions have been organised for those impacted, and efforts are ongoing to match businesses with available premises. Local businesses are also being encouraged to participate in Elgin’s Comfort Scheme, which enhances facilities for visitors and shoppers.

The grant scheme will be administered by Moray Council, with applicants supported by Anna Rogers, Town Centre Task Force Officer, employed by Moray Chamber of Commerce and funded through the UKSPF.

Businesses that were based in the St. Giles Centre at the time of closure and are relocating within Elgin town centre will be contacted directly and provided with an application form. The grant is designed to help maintain business presence in the town centre and sustain footfall.

Moray Council encourages all eligible businesses to apply for support to facilitate a smooth transition and ensure continued success in their new premises.

Cllr Marc Macrae, Chair of Moray Council’s Economic Development and Infrastructure Services Committee, said: “We understand how difficult this situation has been for the businesses affected by the St. Giles Centre closure. This funding will provide much-needed support to help them continue trading within Elgin town centre, preserving jobs and maintaining the vibrancy of our local economy. I encourage all eligible businesses to apply for this grant and take advantage of the support available.”

Elgin BID manager, Angela Norrie, said: "The closure of the St. Giles Centre has placed businesses in an incredibly difficult position, and we know this is a worrying time for many. However, the launch of this Business Support Grant is a crucial step in helping those affected find a way forward.

"Elgin BID welcomes this funding and is committed to supporting businesses as they navigate the challenges ahead. Our priority is to ensure that every affected business has the guidance and resources they need to stay in the town centre and continue serving the community. This is not just about financial assistance—it’s about securing the future of Elgin’s high street. We encourage all eligible businesses to apply for the grant, and our team is here to help in any way we can."

Moray Chamber of Commerce Director and Chief Executive Officer, Sarah Medcraf, said: "The closure of the St. Giles Centre has been a significant challenge for the affected businesses, and our priority has been to ensure they receive the support needed to remain in Elgin. This grant will provide vital financial assistance to help businesses relocate, adapt, and safeguard jobs. We must work together to sustain Elgin’s vibrancy. We encourage all eligible businesses to apply, and our team is here to support them every step of the way."

The UK Shared Prosperity Fund is a key component of the UK Government’s Levelling Up agenda, providing £2.6 billion for local investment by March 2025. The fund aims to improve pride in place and enhance life chances across the UK by investing in communities and place, supporting local businesses, and developing people and skills. For more information, visit https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-shared-prosperity-fund-prospectus