A north community is calling for action to curb what they claim is the anti-social behaviour of youths in the area’s green space.
Smithton residents say they have had enough of drinking and smoking teenagers who they say hurl abuse at passing residents, and leave litter ranging from needles to condoms.
The area of land, including part known as The Avenue, has also been the chosen spot for a rough sleeper and some adult drinking.
The landowner, who does not wish to be named, says his life is marred on a daily basis by having to pick up debris.
He said the final straw came when, with his very young grandson, he came across two youths engaged in a sex act against his fence.
The resident says he was told by the council he must keep the land open for public access when he bought it.
He says he will now ask them to allow him to block it off.
He said: “That site was a mess and was only going to get worse.
“I’ve spent thousands on it keeping it nice, only to find dog dirt, needles, condoms on it constantly.
“I’ve even had a rough sleeper and a couple of adult drunks there, but they are nothing compared to the youths’ behaviour.”
A Highland Council spokeswoman said the resident should raise any concerns about access and rights of way with the council’s access officers.
She went on: “Our secondary schools are not responsible for the behaviour of young people in the community out with school premises and school hours.”
The resident added he was worried that if anyone left drugs on the site, he would be found liable.
Smithton and Culloden community councillor David McGrath said: “It’s frustrating because this area including the Avenue is the only green space for residents, and as a community council we have spent lots of money on it with planting and carvings.”
A police spokesman said: “There have been reports of some anti-social behaviour involving youths in the surrounding area and these are being addressed.”
Local councillor Glynis Sinclair said: “The area is frequented by locals and visitors throughout the day, and they are being verbally abused by youngsters.
“In the evenings the area is a magnet for older youths, who congregate to drink alcohol, and God knows what else.
“Police Scotland have been advised that this issue is causing concern with local residents, reports have been taken by the designated community police-to no avail.”
The police spokesman urged anyone suffering from anti-social behaviour to report it when it is happening, adding: “That way we can attend at the time with a view to dealing with the matter.”
