Nairn East beach harbour path project and beach shower installation get almost £20k funding boost
Projects to create a path connecting the East Beach harbour and to install a beach shower were awarded almost £20,000 of funding by Nairn councillors.
At yesterday’s Nairnshire Area Committee meeting, members gave the green light to support the two initiatives through the allocation from the area’s Community Regeneration Fund.
The initiatives, have been welcomed by councillors as a way to boost the town’s “coastal offering”.
The path connecting the East harbour to the existing network aims to make the area more accessible by installing a 50m gravel pat, with the project’s cost estimated at just over £10,600.
The application states: “Currently there is no clear access for all users to access the area, this path will create a formal access for all abilities to enjoy the space which is current not accessible.
“The need for a path in this location has been raised through the Nairn Access Panel who have highlighted that a new path linking the two existing pathways will significantly improve the accessibility of the area for all.”
As part of the application, Nairn Access Panel stated: “We are currently working on projects around the harbour and beach area to improve accessibility to enable disabled people to enjoy the views and access to the beach along with their friends and families, and all other members of the public.
“We have worked with the ward manager throughout 2024 and designated the path to the harbour wall from the Maggot path as one of our key priorities to be upgraded to enable access to the waterside, and to the wonderful views out to the firth and along the east beach. We fully support this project.”
The path is set to be maintained by the Paths for All funding along with Highland Council’s property budgets when required.
The second project receiving a funding boost would see a beach shower unit at Nairn Links for beachgoers and the swimming community to wash off sand and saltwater.
The application states: “Outdoor showers were identified within the Links Development Plan as a part of improving the amenities available at the beach area.
“Nairn Links is a hub for outdoor swimming and beach activities. Installing outdoor showers offers a convenient way for swimmers to rinse off saltwater and sand, encouraging greater use of the beach throughout the year.
“This increased usage strengthens the community’s relationship with the area as a shared recreational asset.
“Having an outdoor shower available will encourage more people to participate in healthy, outdoor lifestyles, improving physical and mental health.”
Supported by Green Hive, Nairn BID, Nairn Selkies, H&I Climate Hub, Nairn Coastal Rowing Club and Paddle Bliss Nairn, the initiative has an estimated cost of just more than £9,100.
Commenting the decision to award the funds, councillor Michael Green, Nairnshire Area Committee chair, said: “We are delighted to support both projects which will bring welcome improvements to our coastal offering.
“Nairn beach and harbour is a popular spot for locals and visitors to stroll along and it is right that everyone should be able to enjoy this pastime, no matter their ability. The beach shower unit will also be a great addition to our beach front and its intended location close to the splashpad will help to maintain the operation of the Team Hamish site.
“I can also confirm that the Committee has recently agreed an uplift to the Team Hamish Nairn Links Regeneration Phase 2 Project to include a new path section linking the Marine Road carpark passed the cottages to reach the Links path at the cricket pavilion.
“This is another development that will improve accessibility for all at the popular Links area.”
