A native of Moray has recently returned to her roots to help make Keith a more attractive place to live, work and visit.

Originally from Buckie, Lorna Watson takes on the position of co-ordinator for the Keith Economic Regeneration Project.  She will spearhead measures that have been designed as a result of partnership working between Moray Council, HIE Moray and Keith Strathisla Regeneration Partnership (KSRP). 

Lorna will be responsible for implementing the first phase of the Keith Urban Design Framework and for securing funding for its future phases. 

Amongst the issues included in a report published last year the by KSRP, is the need to enhance the visual appearance and image of Keith, provide more local employment, develop the retail sector and promote growth and development - all which will bring an upturn to the economy of the town.

The project's success in securing additional European Regional Develoment Funding (ERDF) allows Lorna to oversee a makeover for Reidhaven Square, with input from KSRP.  The project will see improvements to the built environment which could include trees, lighting and kerbs. The main shopping area in Keith has also been identified as a high priority in revitalisation to create a strong market town identity.

The Keith regeneration project is just one of a number of measures being developed in line with the Moray 2020 strategy devised to combat economic challenges including the consequences of restructuring at Kinloss and Lossiemouth RAF bases.

Alan MacBeth, from Moray Council said:  "We have been working hard with the local community in Keith for quite some time to identify and tackle the problems experienced in Keith.  This project will work to find solutions that are sustainable in the long term for a brighter future for Keith."

Steven Hutcheon, senior development manager at HIE Moray added:  "The financial contribution that we have made to this project is a significant, and is an indication of our commitment in getting Keith back on its feet."

This project was funded jointly by HIE Moray, The Moray Council and the European Regional Development Fund.

Commenting on her new role, Lorna Watson said:  "The Moray 2020 strategy shows that 75 per cent of people brought up in Moray, leave due to a lack of opportunities.  As someone who was born and bred in Moray, I was part of that statistic and I am delighted that this post has given me the opportunity to return to my roots and play a part in contributing to the vitality of the local community."