Kate Forbes states determination to help resolve Dingwall Business Park flood bund issue so fresh investment in county town can be unlocked

EFFORTS to find a resolution to the maintenance of flood protection at Dingwall Business Park remains high on the political agenda following a meeting of the stakeholder group.

Traders have been effectively blocked from setting up shop in the business park because SEPA (Scottish Environmental Protection Agency) says the the bund around it is not good enough after it was not maintained properly after lots were sold off by Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE).

That only stops new businesses from opening there while those already there, including SEPA and a large nursery, are allowed to remain in operation despite the apparent flood risk.

Now Dingwall MSP Kate Forbes, back at her desk following a hectic period involving maternity leave and the SNP leadership campaign, has resumed efforts with local ward councillors in a stakeholder group, to find a solution to the well-documented problem.

Highland Council has already agreed in principle to adopt the new bund once repairs have been completed but not unreasonably is refusing to pay for the work, though would in principle be responsible in the future if it is adopted.

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Ms Forbes said: “There is no doubt that this has been one of the most challenging matters that I have been involved with as the MSP for Dingwall but I am absolutely determined to find a solution because I know how important the business park is for the town.

“In an ideal world, it would be straightforward and the funding would be forthcoming, however with different aspects to consider – not least of all planning – as well as engineering technicalities it has taken longer than hoped to reach this stage.

“This was my first stakeholder meeting back after maternity leave, and I’m pleased to see that we have been inching forwards with progress.

“There’s a lot of technical work going on in the background with designs and consultation – it maybe doesn’t grab the headlines but it’s absolutely essential to ensuring the project gets the green light.

“It is hoped that senior figures of both Highland Council and HIE will attend the next meeting, and I know how keen everyone is to resolve this one and for all.”

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