Moray’s economic leaders will press the Scottish Government to dismiss complaints about demolishing a dilapidated Elgin building.
Developer Springfield Properties was given the go-ahead to knock down a derelict Victorian shop on Elgin’s High Street to make way for a block of flats last year.
But this week it emerged that the proposal could be blocked by Historic Environment Scotland (HES) – who say the building should be left alone.
Heritage chiefs argue that the site is of “critical” importance and should not be tampered with.
Now, it is up to the Scottish Government to decide on whether the revamp can go forward.
The chairman of the Moray Economic Partnership group, John Cowe, yesterday vowed to press Holyrood ministers to overlook the concerns raised by HES.
Mr Cowe was one of the scheme’s biggest supporters, and believes it could help revitalise Elgin town centre following reports of declining footfall.
He said: “I will be writing to the Scottish Government about this, and I sincerely hope that common sense prevails here.
“I am absolutely disgusted that this plan has come up against a brick wall, it seems ridiculous.
“The building, which has been lying vacant for a long time, is a real eyesore on the High Street.”
As a Heldon and Laich councillor, Mr Cowe was part of the planning committee that unanimously approved Springfield’s application.
He said the venue’s facade will be rebuilt using all of the original bricks, under the council-endorsed scheme.
He added: “I was on the planning committee that passed this application.
“Every single brick that comes down will be numbered and used to rebuild the front of the building like for like.”
Historic Environment Scotland’s says the B and C listed buildings “should be preserved”.
A spokeswoman added: “Because this application is for substantial demolition of the listed buildings at this location we welcome the opportunity for further scrutiny of the case.”
The former Lunardis tobacconist has lain empty for nearly 10 years.
Springfield’s managing director, Innes Smith, says the plans will “bring a new lease of life to the High Street” if approved by the government.
