New access to beach at Loch Brora has been provided, says landowner
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An alternative pedestrian access point to a Strath Brora beauty spot has been provided after a traditional route was blocked off, the landowner has said.
Concerns were expressed after it was discovered the historical route to the beach at the head of Loch Brora could no longer be accessed.
A high fence has been erected where previously there was a low fence with a style over which walkers could climb and then follow a short trail to the small beach.
The trail was on the other side of the road from a property which in the past has served as a schoolhouse and Scout headquarters, but is now a private residence.
Graham Sutherland, representing Gordonbush Estate, has said there was never any intention to block access to the beach and it could still be reached.
He pointed out that an unlocked metal pedestrian gate had been inserted into the fence next to a larger, vehicle access gate some 50 yards or so to the west of the original style.
Mr Sutherland said: “We want people to enjoy the place. People have been coming here for generations - why would we stop that?”
He added that the new fencing was part of an ongoing management plan and dialogue had taken place with Highland Council’s footpaths officer.
The access point was moved because a car park at the original location had been grassed over and there was concern beach users would block nearby lay-bys and entry to the home.
The estate hopes to improve the new trail to the beach.
“Over the winter we are going to cut a track to as close to the beach as we can,” said Mr Sutherland. “If at all feasible, we will also build a couple of light bridges to get people over wet sections.”
The estate said that using What3Words, the location of the gate is converter, variation and rungs.
