Campaigners fighting to save an Inverness beauty spot have launched a public petition in opposition of council plans to construct 35 homes.
Highland Council officials are proposing to construct dozens of homes in the recreational field behind Carnarc Crescent, just yards from local reserve; comprising of a selection of bungalows, flats and houses.
Plans for housing development close to Merkinch Nature Reserve criticised
The plans have so far attracted criticism by local residents claiming it would have a “catastrophic” effect on the reserve, its wildlife and nearby local residents.
In an effort to give the community a voice in making a positive difference, Caroline Snow, project manager at the reserve has launched apetition in collaboration with Ali Locke, chairman of Friends of Merkinch Local Nature Reserve.
Speaking of the campaign, Mrs Snow said: “There are a lot of people using that reserve and I think we need to capture them, make them aware of what’s going on and oppose it for the right reasons.
“It’s good to capture the mood of people and especially on Monday, it’s really important we get as many people as we can out to let the council understand the strength of feeling of the local people. So far with one or two exceptions, it’s hard to find anyone who disagrees.”
More than 100 people flocked to support the campaign in a matter of hours including Merkinch resident Bev Petrie, 37.
She said: “It’s a ridiculous idea. Okay people need houses, but Inverness is already densly overpopulated with lack of amenities and services to back it up; just look at the schools as a prime example.
“South Kessock and Clachnaharry both have areas that are beautiful and to destroy this in the name of profit not to mention disturbing the wildlife is not on.”
Meanwhile, as news of the development spread to the west coast, Fort William resident Claire Wood – who used to live in the area – said in a letter to Mrs Snow she was shocked to learn of the plans.
The campaign comes just days before plans are unveiled for the first time during a public consultation at Merkinch Community Centre on Monday.
The plans form part of the council’s Muirtown and South Kessock Development Brief, outlining future prospects for housing and employment across the area.
Mrs Snow added: “There are a lot of different groups and a lot of strong feelings so I am hoping we can all work together to make the difference for the right reasons.”
A Highland Council spokeswoman said they are “keen to get feedback from the local community” for a development they say will “create much needed affordable housing on an empty council site.”
She added: “As part of the proposals access to the local nature reserve will be enhanced including improved lighting and paths. At present the empty site is often used for fly tipping and waste disposal so there is potential to really improve the local environment and regenerate the area.”
