Works to start on Brora environmental improvements
Works are due to begin on a £138,000 environmental improvement project beginning with the up-grade of Fountain Square, Brora at the end of this month.
Funding has been allocated in The Highland Council’s Planning and Development Service capital programme towards and the project is also being part financed by the Scottish Government and European Community Leader 2007-2013 programme.
A well attended community consultation conducted in November 2008 attracted many ideas to the scheme which was developed to include upgrading of the footways on Fountain Square and part of Gower Street with heritage style paving slabs and kerbs.
The scheme also includes street tree planting; construction of stone seats and planters; lighting; repainting of Victoria Fountain and provision of a visitor welcome panel. The overall project includes the development of a heritage trail around the village which will be taken forward as phase two of the project over the next few months.
The project aim is to create a more attractive village centre for both locals and visitors alike, while also helping to promote the unique heritage that Brora has to offer. The scheme has been designed and developed in close consultation with Brighter Brora and Clyne Heritage Society and incorporates sand-blasted images and poetry on paving which will reflect Brora’s diverse industrial history.
Local Highland Councillor Deirdre Mackay said: “The area around Fountain Square is currently an eyesore and, situated on the A9, does little to enhance Brora as an attractive village to visit and enjoy. The proposals and funding will go a long way to improving the physical area for both resident and visitors to enjoy in the future and we are really looking forward to seeing the completed project.
“The well thought out plans for the Heritage Trail will also be of value to the village guiding visitors to the various places of interest and providing attractive interpretive panels along the way. We want to attract more and more visitors to spend time in Brora and this project will help entice visitors into the other interesting parts of the village. I would like to record my special thanks to the members of Brighter Brora, Clyne Heritage Society and the 80+ people who participated in the consultation day who embraced this project and contributed to it with energy and enthusiasm.“
MM Miller (Wick) Ltd. has been awarded the project contract and work is due to commence on Monday 25 May 2009 for an 8 week period. Shop access will be maintained with ramps and signs as appropriate and any disruption will be kept to a minimum.