Big Bogton debate draws the crowds but fails to attract the developer

DEVELOPERS of a proposed retail park missed the chance to speak at The Big Bogton Debate, after they failed to show.

However, the people of Forres showed up in their droves for the public meeting at the Town Hall that was also attended by guest speakers including land reformist activist Andy Wightman and Moray Councillor, Chris Tuke.

The panel also included local councillors Lorna Creswell and Aaron McLean, local businessman Lewis Maclean, community council vice chair Stewart Noble, Battle For Bogton campaigner Jackie Barrere, Bogton resident Bert Logie and Community Council planning officer, Eleanor Hayward who fielded questions from an audience of around 200.

Meeting chair, Stewart Noble, opened the "debate" by reading out an extensive list of invitees who were not present including local politicians, councillors, Moray Council officials and representatives of developers Redco Milne.

"Make of that what you will," he said.

Proceedings were split into four sections: the past, the present (plans), the present (finance) and the future, with speeches explaining aspects of the Redco Milne proposal before Q&A sessions.

The audience were given green and red cards to show their answers to questions from chair Stewart Noble such as: "Do you want Bogton disposed of as a retail development?".

Red cards were overwhelmingly shown each time the public voiced their opinion, with little or no support for the retail proposal demonstrated.

Highlights of the evening included explanation of Common Good law and its effect on the proposals, a history of the Redco Milne company, a layman’s terms explanation of the offer for the land and alternative plans for the site.

There was a reaffirmation from James ‘Doc’ Anderson that Forres Mechanics will agree to a proposed stadium move if the people of Forres want the development.

Councillor Tuke also read a statement from Moray Council chief executive Roddy Burns which explained the local authority’s current position on the matter.

Visiting Common Good expert, Andy Wightman, closed the meeting by advising everyone to keep an open mind about the deal being offered.

"We need more information from Redco Milne," he said. "Don’t assume that their offer is no good. People have a tendency to continue with the status quo but some good could be done with the money."

Read the full story and who said what in next week’s edition, in your shops from Tuesday afternoon.