Councillor calls for action over Findochty Harbour road closure
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CONCERNS have been raised about the continued closure of a road in Findochty.
A section of road alongside the village's harbour adjacent to the pontoon walkway and ‘white Mannie’ statue has been closed pending repairs to a deep hole in the carriageway.
However, local councillor Neil McLennan has called for action to rid the village of the eyesore.
He said: "The road is rightly closed for safety reasons as we await roads repairs and also a longer term solutions regarding the pier.
"However, the ‘road closed’ sign and bright orange but dirty looking barriers sitting amidst the scenic splendour of Findochty Harbour does nothing for our beautiful area.
"There is not a week goes by that I do not speak with tourists from across the country and globe who are visiting our amazing coastline and harbour towns. Findochty really is a gem in the Moray tourism crown. However, its stunning harbour is slightly tainted with the current temporary road closure signs.
"We are now being informed that tendering processes for the repairs work is ongoing and that the timetable for repairs has still to be shared with residents.
"I have asked if there is any more innovative, and ‘in keeping’ way that the roadway might be closed off whilst the beauty of the area protected, if not enhanced."
Councillor McLennan said that the out of the box solutions to a variety of problems during the pandemic could be applied in this instance.
"During Covid we saw all sorts of radical transformations to towns across the country," he continued.
"For example, we saw streets, once busy with cars, buses and trucks being opened up with more space for people including picnic and meeting benches, raised flower beds and all sorts of innovative solutions which enhanced local areas look and usage.
"Moray is a magnificent place and we need to work to keep it that way and enhance it where we can. I spoke with business leaders recently who commented on things like the Elgin High Street water fountain. This, and Findochty are examples of places we need to protect and promote.
"It will be interesting to see what sort of ideas officers and indeed the community could come up with related to the Findochty road closure. It is so important that we proudly protect our conservation areas and places of great beauty."
