Work is set to get underway on the development of a new outdoor gym at Forres Academy, Moray Council has announced.

The local community chose the final design of the development, from eight options proposed by the council earlier this year.

The KOMPAN gym will be installed behind Forres Academy next to a long jump pit, opposite the Sanquhar Loch car park. It includes multi-station, multi-user pieces, to offer a full body workout, plus seats and shelters.

Fundraising for the project was led by recently-retired Forres Academy principal teacher of home economics, Ann Rossiter, through her involvement with Forres Community Sports Hub.

As Chair of Forres Community Sports Hub, Ann started the business plan and research for the facility when she was sports co-ordinator at Forres Academy.


She said: "I'm really pleased to see work getting underway and am sure that this new gym will be enjoyed by all. It's a great design the community has chosen and I can see it being well used for many years to come.

"Grateful thanks must be given to the conscientious team from Moray Council who have supported and guided us through this process. It's helpful to know the council will take on maintenance and inspections of the equipment too."

Moray Council leader Kathleen Robertson, who helped progress the scheme in her previous role as chair of Forres Community Council, said: "Ann and I spent many hours completing funding application forms and it is a joy to seeing the project come alive. Collaboration between the Community Council and Sports Hub will provide an exciting resource for our community."

Forres Community Sports Hub has been working in conjunction with Forres Community Council to secure funding for the project.

The majority of the £72,000 came from the Berry Burn Community Fund, which committed £45,000. A further £4000 was donated through the Money for Moray participatory budgeting process, topping up the £23,000 raised by the community.