We continue our On My Doorstep feature with David Haas, Highland Council’s Inverness city manager. Find out about his wayward goat, the jewel in the crown — the River Ness — and Tom Mackenzie, his favourite Invernessian
How long have you lived/did you live in the Inverness area?
Michelle and I moved to Carrbridge in March 1992 and lived in the village until October 1999, when we negotiated with Seafield Estate to move into an old Croft House on Foregin Moor. It was empty and had been so since 1986. We have put our own resources into bringing the house back to standard and are very proud that when we leave — which will not be for a very long time, as we love living here — we have brought a house back into the housing stock.
Best thing about living here?
The sense of community — people have opinions and care, often passionately, about what happens to the city and the Highlands. This means that there will always be a balanced argument to issues which affect how we live and how we influence the landscape and the environment. I always remember the stormy night in 2002 when we found a wayward young goat at Foregin and thanks to the care of our farmer friends the Yule’s at Carrbridge, it found a home at the Highland Folk Park at Newtonmore where it was named Dhuie and became the Folk Park’s mascot — the Yule’s have helped us out on countless occasions when our mile long track has become impassable to vehicles because of snow. This exemplifies the care people have for each other and for nature.
Worst thing about living here?
Having to battle to make decision-makers in other parts of the country, who have influence on the quality and extensiveness of the services we provide, of how important it is to recognise that the city and the Highlands has a very significant role to play in the Scottish and UK economy. This has become easier with the Scottish Government’s six cities initiative and the growth of the renewable energy sector. Winter is also a challenge and often means an interesting journey into work for me. Starting with a mile of cross-country skiing and a quick change of clothes into the Land Rover for a drive to the office.
One thing you would change about Inverness.
Make more use of the jewel in our crown — being the River Ness.
Your favourite walk/cycle ride.
Along the riverside followed by a stroll through the Old Town and the Victorian Market — from the natural texture and landscape of the river to the wonderful traditional architecture which can be found in the Old Town to the human vibrancy and choice offered in the market.
Describe your ideal Inverness weekend.
A show at Eden Court followed by a meal at one of the many restaurants.
Where would you take a first time visitor to the area?
The river and Loch Ness — the sense of history around the loch is intoxicating and unique. Culloden Battlefield is another place which holds a unique status.
Where’s the best place for a first date?
Well — that’s a question! If I was in that position then I would choose The Dores Inn at Loch Ness on warm summer’s afternoon.
Favourite local restaurant?
That has to be Rocpool at Ness Bridge — it offers excellent food locally sourced and great service.
Favourite shop?
The Kiltmaker is a great store along with Highland Industrial Supplies.
Your favourite local building, and why.
The Town House — it oozes pride — having been built by subscription in the 1880s it sums up the ingenuity of the Highlanders and is owned by the city’s common good fund which is in itself successful because of the foresight of previous generations.
It is well used both as civic hub and hosts events which celebrate those who
bring benefit to the community in
the city.
Who is your favourite Invernessian, past or present, and why?
The late councillor Tom Mackenzie — a huge character whose focus was on dedication of his life to make other lives better and to be a champion for the people of the city.
What is the area’s best kept secret?
Apart from the number and range of great restaurants, the work done by communities to support themselves and care for each other.
How do you think Inverness is perceived by the rest of Britain?
The home of the Loch Ness monster — we must never underestimate the significance of Loch Ness as a driver for the tourism sector. The city is also perceived by a growing number of people as a place to visit for its vibrancy and restaurants. The city’s events and festivals team and Inverness Old Town arts is playing its part in giving the city a profile in places such as the Edinburgh International Festival and on the international Highland Games stage.
How would you describe Inverness in a sentence?
Inverness is a fusion of passion for all things essential to life in an exceptionally beautiful natural environment — it is the epitome of the challenges we face but has all the tools in the form of a strong and vibrant community which will help Scotland develop and grow as great place to live and work.
