Scottish Rural Communities Policy Review: East Moray case study
Six place-based case studies have been produced as part of Stage 3 of the Scottish Rural Communities Policy Review. This is the East Moray case study. The others are East Borders, Lochalsh and South Skye, Harris and Scalpay, Orkney and West Lothian.
About East Moray
Moray is a local authority area in the northeast of Scotland, between Highland and Aberdeenshire. The main road and rail route between Inverness and Aberdeen passes through the area. It has a long coastline with many popular beaches, as well as rural inland areas, many of which are quite mountainous. Part of the south of Moray is in the Cairngorms National Park area.
Much of Moray has rich farmland, and agriculture is a large part of the local economy. It is also one of Scotland’s main whisky-producing areas, and food and drink manufacturing are key employment sectors for the area. Because of its scenic beauty, the opportunities for outdoor pursuits on both the coast and in the mountains, and the whisky industry, it is a popular tourist destination. As well as attracting visitors from across the UK and the world, the area is also popular with people in Inverness and Aberdeen looking to enjoy the natural environment.
The main settlement is Elgin, an old cathedral city. There are many other smaller towns in the area, which are well connected by road. The case study area was primarily the area to the east of Elgin. Interviews were held with people either located in east Moray, or organisations operating across the whole of the Moray area.
Contact
Email: socialresearch@gov.scot