Transition Town Forres Board Resigns Amidst Member Criticism and Concerns

Forres: The board of Transition Town Forres, an environmental charity, has resigned after 17 years on local common good land. This decision came after a recent meeting where members voiced their concerns about the board’s future plans.

At the heart of the issue were the gardeners who share the green space. They were worried about the board’s proposals and how they would impact the community. The charity’s Sustainable Living Centre, which offers classes and a community space, has been a hub for local activities.

A spokesperson for TTF mentioned that they decided to notify Moray Council about vacating the site by April 2025. Rising costs and low usage made it tough to keep things going financially.

During a well-attended meeting in December, TTF shared ideas for fundraising, including a community canteen and various events focused on food and climate. However, some members felt the plans were unrealistic and raised safety concerns about access to the site.

TTF aimed to create a “regenerative hub” but struggled to get the necessary support from its members. Despite backing from Moray Council, the proposals didn’t resonate with the community.

Since 2008, TTF has worked on social and environmental projects, but with the council no longer covering their rent, they faced a financial crossroads. The board’s spokesperson emphasized that they need new leadership or support from members to keep the organization alive.

As the future of the Sustainable Living Centre hangs in the balance, TTF is in talks with Moray Council about what comes next. The spokesperson expressed pride in the work done over the years and hopes to continue their mission in a new, flexible way.

Meanwhile, the gardening group is looking to meet with the council to discuss their next steps. Local councillor Draeyk van der Horn expressed disappointment over the board’s resignation, highlighting the great work TTF has done for nearly two decades.