Plans for a £30million scheme to reduce the risk of flooding from the River Findhorn at Forres have taken a major step forward. 

Moray councillors today approved a flood prevention order which will now be submitted to the Scottish Government for approval. 

There will be a three-month period during which objections to the order can be lodged. 

A planning application for the scheme is expected to be submitted in May and work could begin on the ground as early as next spring. 

Work is already under way on another flood alleviation scheme in Forres which will protect homes and businesses from flooding from the Burn of Mosset.