Highland Council seeking 'evidence of use' in move towards making blocked footpath at Littleferry a public right of way
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Highland Council is consulting the public over a footpath at an East Sutherland beauty spot which has been blocked by a locked gate.
The wooden gate was erected in front of the Ferryman's Cottage at Littleferry in August and bars access to the quayside path which was previously open to all.
The local authority was asked to look into the issue by users of the area, which is well frequented by dog walkers and others.
Complainers included frequent visitors James and Isobel McFarlane, of Carnoustie, who pointed out the gate meant walkers could not access the beach or the path alongside it without a 200m or so diversion through a car park at the rear of nearby houses.
Local councillor Richard Gale also expressed disquiet, saying there was a real danger if anyone was to fall into the water from the pier, it would be difficult to get them out quickly.
Highland Council is now "seeking evidence" about the use of the route from the road end at Littleferry to the slipway and foreshore.
Questionnaires are available at Golspie Service Point or via email from the council's access officer Matt Dent (matt.dent@highland.gov.uk).
The authority has said that the consultation is "with a view to asserting the route as a public right of way".