MSP Maree Todd keen to see better access to Golspie beach
Sutherland MSP Maree Todd has said she is keen to see improved access to Golspie beach.
Ms Todd was speaking after an online meeting of the Golspie Flood Defence Stakeholder Group on Monday, 27 January.
She said: “One area I am particularly keen to focus on is improving access to the beach.
“Golspie is fortunate to have such a stunning beach right on its doorstep, but at the moment access is limited and not suitable for people of all abilities.
“Access to outdoor spaces like this is so important for physical and mental wellbeing.
“As a group we will continue to explore what more can be done to improve access to the beach and make it easier for everyone to visit and enjoy this beautiful natural asset.”
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The aim of the stakeholder group is to bring together key agencies in a bid to tackle flooding issues in Golspie.
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Last week’s meeting was attended by representatives from Golspie Flood Action Group, Marine Scotland and Highland Council,
Ms Todd said discussion at the meeting focused on Highland Council’s application to the Coastal Change Adaptation Fund for funding to carry out groyne construction at Golspie pier.
She said: “We were pleased to welcome a representative from Marine Scotland, who provided valuable guidance on the marine licensing requirements associated with the proposed flood mitigation measures should the funding be approved”.
The meeting heard that BEAR Scotland is now inspecting drainage outlets belonging to Scottish Water and Highland Council alongside Transport Scotland’s outlet, providing a more coordinated approach to addressing drainage issues in the village.
“This type of collaborative effort is exactly what the group set out to achieve, so I am encouraged to see real, practical, results emerging,” said Ms Todd.
She added: “It was also a pleasure to welcome Network Rail to the meeting.
“As we know, disruption to the railway line has a significant impact on residents across Caithness and Sutherland so it was reassuring to hear about Network Rail’s action plan to address the flood-prone sections of the line through Golspie. I look forward to seeing progress. A huge thank you to all the stakeholders involved and to Gospie Flood Action Group for all their efforts.”