Residents of a troubled caravan park have made renewed calls for a cleanup of the site after the new owners unveiled plans to bring it up to five-star standard.
Richmond Wight Estates outlined proposals for a luxury clubhouse and leisure centre at Riverview Country Park at Mundole in Forres last week.
But permanent residents have urged the firm to address the dilapidated condition of their grounds before focusing on the task ahead.
Last night the company’s spokesman insisted the park would be renovated “bit by bit” and promised everyone would benefit from the new facilities when they are built.
The site’s 30-strong residents association issued a joint statement on the planned upgrade, welcoming the development but voicing some misgivings.
It said: “We would like to see any further developments include repairs to roads, street lighting, maintenance and grass cutting.
“These concerns have been presented to the office on previous occasions, with little done to improve matters.
“The use of the new facilities is not the priority of residents.
“The number of abandoned caravans, piles of rubbish and the lack of respect shown towards residents does not make for acceptable living.”
Jim Buchan, 69, moved to the park 13 years ago with his wife Helen.
He said: “The park has gone downhill in the time I have been here.
“They say they are going to get a five-star rating but if the AA could see this site now, it would get minus five-stars.
“There’s an awful lot to do before they get this place to that standard.”
Responding to the resident’s claims Richmond Wight secretary Chek Whyte said: “We took the park over in administration.
“People get depressed about some areas being in bad condition, but they can also enjoy the new facilities when they are built.
“We will get the whole park up to a five-star standard over the next year.”
Moray MP Angus Robertson said he understood residents’ concerns when the plans were unveiled last week.
He said: “Over the years I have been involved in helping constituents living at Riverview with serious complaints.
“Given these past problem,s residents will be wary of promises by the new owner until their actions prove their commitment to improving Riverview.”