REVEALED: Mystery footprints aimed at attracting dog owners to Inverness city centre
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The mystery surrounding the appearance of a series of colourful footprints that have been placed on streets in Inverness city centre has been solved.
Green and yellow footprints and pawprints appearing to lead people toward the Victorian Market were spotted on Monday.
They have been put in place by Highland Council.
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Some businesses were upset about it, claiming there was no warning or explanation they would be placed outside their premises. One even described it as looking like a playground.
A council spokesman said: “To encourage an increase in footfall in the city centre and in particular connecting the High Street through Lombard Street with Union Street and the Victorian Market, a new trail has been installed using paw and footprints to encourage dog owners into the city centre.
"With the increasing popularity of dog ownership and staycations, many tourists now bring their dogs with them on holiday and the ‘Paw Prints Trail’ will help encourage footfall to support the many excellent local city centre independent retailers.
"The bright colours used aim to also help those with sight problems and make the trail more fun for youngsters.”
One business leader said: "This is all well and good but I hope there are places for dog owners to dispose of any of their pet's waste. We don't want that on the streets as well!"
