Anger in north-west Sutherland over road priorities
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Assynt Community Council’s simmering frustration over what it claims is Highland Council’s lack of action and consultation over road issues in its area, has finally boiled over.
The group has sent a lengthy dossier citing its concerns and specific cases of inaction, dating back years, to chief executive Donna Manson with copies to the roads officials, the three ward councillors and ward manager Phil Tomalin.
The dossier was triggered by the recent £140,000 upgrade of a 3.5km stretch of the B869 route – community councillors say there were others sections of road more well used by locals that should have been given priority.
The group states in the document: “We have raised the same concerns year after year regarding the deteriorating condition of our roads and highlighting the work needed to bring them up to scratch, yet the situation shows no sign of improving.
“Given that the current infrastructure cannot support the levels of traffic pouring into Assynt during the summer months on the back of constant promotion conducted by the NC500 brand owners, problems continue to escalate year-on-year with little sign of a proactive response.”
The statement continues: “It is clear that decisions continue to be made in Golspie without any consultation with the local community. In our experience, Highland Council roads department appears to disregard any input from members and community councils.”
A Highland Council spokesman said: “The council believes that it has responded timeously and courteously to all Assynt Community Council requests for information regarding roads and winter maintenance, and has attended meetings with them when requested to do so.
“There are many competing demands on the council’s roads service and work has to be prioritised according to the resources available and the inspection/technical assessments. Advice regarding this has been provided.”
“Unfortunately, the council was unable to undertake the majority of its programmed work last year due to the impact of Covid-19. Due to this and the impact of the long cold winter, the council is working hard to catch up and has agreed over £20 million additional investment in roads to be spent over the next two years which it is hoped should make a real difference.
“Priorities for the increased additional investment at local level have been agreed by councillors at area committees.”
Councillor Linda Munro said she understood Assynt’s frustration, which was also felt by many community councils, but there was no “silver bullet” with £190 million of roads repairs needed in the region.
Drumbeg road resurfacing completed at a cost of £140k
