Nairn, Badenoch and Strathspey Area Committee welcomes Council bid for funding for mini-charrette in Nairn

Members of the Nairn, Badenoch and Strathspey Area Committee have today welcomed The Highland Council’s bid for funding from the Scottish Government to run mini-charrettes (interactive facilitated workshops) to focus on actions which will best deliver town centre regeneration in Nairn, Fort William, and Tain.

The bid is for £20,000 and if successful the Council will contribute £15,000 of its own funding towards the events, which would be held over a two week period in the New Year.

Master plans already exist for Nairn and Fort William, where the Council would wish to bring together key stakeholders to discuss the detail of town centre regeneration.

This bid for funding is being made by The Highland Council in partnership with a number of interested parties, including Community Councils and business groups in each town.

Leader of the Nairn, Badenoch and Strathspey Area Committee Councillor Liz MacDonald said: “With the by-pass coming forward and the impact that will have on Nairn, it is essential that we can take a forward look at what we hope to achieve.

“There have been significant measures already undertaken by the previous council clearing derelict buildings and opening up spaces within the town centre. This was achieved with the four Nairn councillors working closely together under the leadership of former Councillor Sandy Park. Now we should be taking stock and try to deliver the best outcomes possible for our centre.

“It is imperative that we do all we can to help local shops and businesses and try to increase footfall on Nairn High Street, hopefully be creating a dynamic environment that encourages folk to stay and spend and enjoy their time.”

Leader MacDonald commended Scott Dalgarno, Highland Council’s Development Plans Manager for drawing up the regeneration bid for Scottish Government funding, she said: “The timescale set by the Scottish Government was challenging and Scott did very well to get it prepared so quickly. There have already been considerable planning meetings and consultations in Nairn and this will hopefully build on the previous work.”