ONE of two historic cottages at Ladyhill in Elgin has been occupied for the first time in the 21st century, following a renovation project by Moray Council.
The pair of C-listed cottages were donated to the city and royal burgh of Elgin in 1919 by the Right Honourable Sir Archibald Williamson following the First World War.
A former MP for Moray and Nairn, Sir Archibald’s bequest stipulated that the properties be held in trust for the benefit of a ‘suitable’ person, with a preference for ex-sailors, soldiers, or airmen of the national forces.
Following a renovation project by Moray Council to bring the properties up to modern standards, whilst preserving their historic charm, Shaun Moat, a former RAF serviceman, will move into one of the cottages. He said, “I’m so grateful to be allocated this property, it’s such an iconic address within Elgin, and the garden – which is maintained by volunteers – is beautiful. My friends joke that I’m the ‘gatekeeper’ to Elgin Castle, which is just behind the cottage – I feel very fortunate to live here.”
Moray Council’s armed forces and veterans’ champion, councillor Peter Bloomfield – who served in the RAF for over 45 years – added, “I’m delighted to see a former serviceman take residence in this historic property. It’s wonderful to see how Shaun has embraced the heritage of this cottage and made it his home.”
The second property is currently undergoing renovation work, with a view to housing a tenant in spring 2025.
