More Sutherland dates for public to have their say

As the first step in producing a new Local Development Plan for Caithness and Sutherland, The Highland Council has published a Main Issues Report which outlines options for the future of the area over the next 20 years. At this crucial early stage, community groups, businesses, public agencies and members of the public are being encouraged to have their say.

Public consultation is well underway with a number of events already being held across Caithness and Sutherland. Upcoming events include:

• Lochinver on 8 December at the Assynt Leisure Centre, Culag Pier;
• Lairg on 9 December at the Community Centre, Main Street.

At both of these there will be a drop-in session between 2pm and 5.30pm and a round table discussion which starts at 6.30pm. Everyone is welcome to attend these events where they will be able to speak to planners about development options and the important issues relevant to communities in the local area.

One of the issues highlighted in the Main Issues Report is how we can protect and enhance the unique natural environment of the area. Scott Dalgarno of The Highland Council’s Development Plans Team explains: “Caithness and Sutherland have a diverse natural environment with spectacular scenery and a rich built and archaeological heritage.  The Main Issues Report seeks to safeguard and celebrate this, whilst also using it to benefit the economy and local communities.  We ask for people’s views on things like Special Landscape Areas but also where new homes and businesses could be located within settlements.”

The easiest way to read the Main Issues Report is on the CaSPlan webpage www.highland.gov.uk/casplan where comments can also be submitted.  Copies of the CaSPlan Main Issues Report are also available at each Council Service Point and Public Library in the area.

Any comments on the Main Issues Report need to be received by The Council no later than 12 noon on Thursday 29th January 2015.