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It is proposed by SEPA that Lochs at Watten are taken over by the community, and there will be access problems.
We consulted with the people at Scarfskerry. They do not want a built path.
FOOTPATH WORKS – WILLOWBANK TO STAXIGOE Some more, long-awaited, good news for those who have been looking for work to be done to the pedestrian footpath from the town to Staxigoe. Some work was undertaken recently to scrape back the vegetation creep on the footpath however, the images of the project that has been awarded to a local contractor recently, lets you see that there are a number of footpath-works that will be undertaken over the next period of time. I’ve attached the images of the plans for those who are interested – the detail is quite small but you can zoom in. Lowered kerbs, redesign of junctions, clearing of vegetation and other footpath-works will be undertaken. I also spoke to the Roads’ team to see what progress could be made in respect of resurfacing works in a number of areas and they were awaiting the award of contract before reviewing the options available to them for any works that could be considered. It would also be good if there were any outstanding roads maintenance works that could be included – given the recent works completed at Couper’s Corner. Local Members have been keen to see work undertaken on this route and, certainly, I’ve been making representation in respect of this on behalf of a number of local constituents since my previous term of council. Highland Council announced the news on 16th June here: https://www.highland.gov.uk/.../wick_footway_improvement... And the story is in the local press, here: https://www.johnogroat-journal.co.uk/.../wick-pavements.../ Again, I'll try and let you know of progress as often as I can. 🙂
Problems at Strathy with misinformation about coffee houses et.
Strathy by TinaIrving
on July 01, 2025, 07:36:01 am
In 2024 The core path was being rerouted. Check with the Access Team.
Sutherland Access Forum by TinaIrving
on June 04, 2025, 08:45:59 am
Three sections for proposed new Core Paths have been submitted for John o Groats to Pentland Ferries, Thurso to Borgie, and at Westfield. These were rejected in 2025 as CPNS are not being updated at present. However this letter was never responded to Further to our discussions regarding the North Highland Way, the route planned across the north of Scotland from John O Groats to Durness and 10 miles inland, as per the specification agreed in 2014, I attach the following documents: 1. A list of landowners between John o Groats and Gills Bay, as per the CPN agreement for coastal path as signed by Mr. Mowatt of John o Groats. This is now for The Highland Council to follow up under the legislation, the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2016. 2. I sent a document relating to SUSTRANS dated 8th November 2023 relating to a potential application for funding under the SUSTRAINS Places for Everyone Scheme, to the Access email address, as discussed with Colin Simpson, who authorised the specification for the North Highland Way in 2014. 3. Signage has been agreed at John o Groats and in the Cape Wrath bothy, with the agreement of the MOD. 4. There are four voluntary groups at Dunnet Head, so I do not intend pursuing more CPNS there. There are access issues on CPNS at Brough, ie beside the tearooms between Windhaven and Little Clett, and at Heathsfield which now belongs to the Dunnet Forestry Trust. 5. The route from the coast at Tongue on to AMhoine has been ridden by a local horse rider who is a member of the BHS and on the Access Forum (not Donna Mather). It requires an upgrade to a CPN. This will be reviewed during my recce across the north coast in April 2024, and I will speak to the local residents then. Furthermore, I would inform you again that there are problems on the east coast, as identified by myself and Mr. Andrew MacKay of Venture North and the Moray Coastal Partnership, as per the attached letter sent to you and the distribution list on 10th January 2024 to the Access email box. All in all, the North Highland Way is coming along nicely, and we will be submitting further core path reviews in due course. You can see updates on our web site at www.friendsofthenorthhighlandway.com. The Environmental news is available as a reference document only in Wick library and on line. This will include a quarterly update to progress with The North Highland Way, as well as identifying environmental hotspots such as Golspie with the flood plains.
Re: Moving forward by Tina Marshall
on January 25, 2026, 06:54:54 am
There were issues at Halkirk in May 2025. We sent the group to Scotways who will be able to assist.
As the North Highland Way gathers with the advent of the Flow Country as a destination, and the ground monitoring tool, we really gain traction. Until now we have focussed on the eastern side of the trail, but now the Flow Country and the Sutherland Space Hub come into play.
Just a quick reminder to everyone using the track at Borgie Breco: please stick to the speed limit of 10mph when using the track. As you may have seen, there has recently been lots of repairs done to fill the potholes on the track and sticking to the speed limit will ensure this hard work isn't undone any time soon. Thank you!
The A9 remains as dangerous as ever, especially with all the traffic from the windfarms, although that will be delivered by rail.
There are no significant problems, except the "poo" field. We now connect with the Castle of Mey as to parking at the corner of St. Johns Loch
Yarrows I established that Sonja Mindt has drawn down the money from the fund. Why was this not pursued at the last meeting, from which I was banned? Was it a waste of my time? "Yarrows This is a core path but in bad condition due to cattle, horses and lack of maintenance. The occupier has received funding to upgrade a portion of the path to disabled access but no works have taken place. Seek feedback and comments from Cllr Bremner, possible site visit in 2019 Highland Council has had fingerpost delivered and visited with contractor regards gate work. No quote came in despite follow up. In contact with fencer again and awaiting quote." This is on the John O Groats Trail, why are they not dealing with it, or matters at Embo as emailed to Cllr Bremner this morning.
Skirza by TinaIrving
on May 18, 2025, 08:48:24 am
There are two bridges at Dunbeach which are impassable, and no one knows who owns them. Reported in the John o Groats Journal 4 July 2025.
Dunbeath by TinaIrving
on July 04, 2025, 07:37:09 pm
We got in touch with a few folk in Durness, including the ferry man. He is not a happy bunny at all. The Highland Council have refused to do the road, so he can't operate.
Durness by TinaIrving
on May 24, 2024, 02:00:05 am
On speaking to the nice man at the Murkle Caravan park, and leaving two landowners notes, I noted that there is an access issue on the right as you approach No. 2 West Murkle with a gate open and a road, and a cattle grid. It is not certain if this is CPN, but the sign to the beach certainly is.
Murkle still a problem by TinaIrving
on April 23, 2024, 08:36:26 am
The coastal walker found a number of access issues. https://www.change.org/p/open-access-to-dounreay-airfield-for-safer-travel-of-walkers-cyclists-and-horse-riders/dashboard?source_location=user_profile_started
Going over to the west, we note that The Highland Council want to divert the Core Path Network around Upper BigHouse while at the same time saying there is no review and have removed the information from their web site. The coastal walker found a number of access issues. https://www.change.org/p/open-access-to-dounreay-airfield-for-safer-travel-of-walkers-cyclists-and-horse-riders/dashboard?source_location=user_profile_started
Going west from Gills, Gills Bay westward access. There has to be a small route change, this is due to new both wooden and electric fencing that has been erected making it very difficult.. The developer cannot substantiate this as she has not checked it herself as yet.
We have linked up with the South West Path and Lincolnshire. We are in touch with both, and sit on the Lincolnshire Access Forum.
Cross Country everywhere by TinaIrving
on April 09, 2024, 03:03:58 am
THURSO to FRESGOE HARBOUR (REAY) Time Started - 910am Time Finished - 1pm Time took - 3 Hrs 50 Mins Distance - 19.8 Kms - 12.3 Miles Obstacles - None really apart from plodding along the road.
DWARWICK PIER to THURSO Time left - 850am Time finished - 1240am Time took - 3 Hrs 50 Mins Distance - 17.6 Kms - 10.9 Miles Obstacles - See below. CHANGE OF ROUTE Due to erosion of the embankments after the Battery Road and when its high tide it can be dangerous when crossing the slabs, it has been decided that the route has had to be changed. NEW ROUTE At the south end of Battery Road 18496 69000 turn left and procced up to the main road 18531 68365 (Wear something bright and follow the Highway Code for walking along roads) Turn right up to the East Murkle Sign 16816 68295, turn right and follow the track to the Bay 16796 69225 turn left and then follow the path to Thurso.
THE HAVEN to DWARWICK PIER Time left - 840am Time finished - 1205pm Time took - 4 hrs 25 mins Distance - 18.8 Kms - 11.5 Miles Obstacles - Rattar Burn (if in wet season will need waders!!) Sic... this was checked out in December 2023. Still need waders. Landowner reports no problems. This route goes round Dunnet Head.
DUNCANSBY HEAD to THE HAVEN Time left - 9am Time finished - 150pm Time took - 4 hours 50 mins. Distance 20 Kms/12.5 Miles. Obstacles - The paths were of a reasonable state from the start to just after John O'Groats. At Huna there is vehicle scrapyard also, there is seaweed on the rocks bit further on, after that some of the embankments are collapsed in various locations. This is why part of route is a road walk to Gills Bay. You can however walk along the Foreshore but, care should be taken when walking along the boulders etc. It will take slightly longer of course. CHANGE OF ROUTE Due to finding that the path/track from St John's Point at 31093 74555 to Castle of Mey has eroded and the stone walls collapsed and unsafe I have had to look at another route for this area. There is a path leading from St John's Point to the corner of the B Road proceed to the gate at 31163 74445 then make your way along the B Road/Track to 29347 74555 this will get you back onto the Way. CHANGE OF ROUTE Hi all Gills Bay westward access. There has to be a small route change, this is due to new both wooden and electric fencing that has been erected making it very difficult. I am at the present moment speaking with land owners to sort the new route.
Due to finding that the path/track from St John's Point at 31093 74555 to Castle of Mey has eroded and the stone walls collapsed and unsafe I have had to look at another route for this area. There is a path leading from St John's Point to the corner of the B Road proceed to the gate at 31163 74445 then make your way along the B Road/Track to 29347 74555 this will get you back onto the Way. DUNCANSBY HEAD to THE HAVEN Time left - 9am Time finished - 150pm Time took - 4 hours 50 mins. Distance 20 Kms/12.5 Miles. Obstacles - The paths were of a reasonable state from the start to just after John O'Groats. At Huna there is vehicle scrapyard also, there is seaweed on the rocks bit further on, after that some of the embankments are collapsed in various locations. This is why part of route is a road walk to Gills Bay. You can however walk along the Foreshore but, care should be taken when walking along the boulders etc. It will take slightly longer of course. CHANGE OF ROUTE Due to finding that the path/track from St John's Point at 31093 74555 to Castle of Mey has eroded and the stone walls collapsed and unsafe I have had to look at another route for this area. There is a path leading from St John's Point to the corner of the B Road proceed to the gate at 31163 74445 then make your way along the B Road/Track to 29347 74555 this will get you back onto the Way. CHANGE OF ROUTE Hi all Gills Bay westward access. There has to be a small route change, this is due to new both wooden and electric fencing that has been erected making it very difficult. I am at the present moment speaking with land owners to sort the new route. Will keep you all up to date. Have now agreed with land owners (Castle of Mey) a new route. Now awaiting permission to put up markers. NEW ROUTE Walk past Gills Bay entrance, take the first road to the right and walk to the end, then turn right onto the main road up to the Sheep Pen at 31997 730028. I have located a small gap in the gorse which you can get through. 31997 74232 its approximately 20M from the cliffs. From there go to the gate at 31163 74445. Still awaiting permission for markers.
We are looking at the wider Scottish Coastal Path. Other areas around the coast are invited to contribute here.
Melvich by Tina Marshall
on October 29, 2025, 03:47:45 am
We received comments from a BHS member, long distance rider and Local Access Forum member. just a very quick message as im at work! I actually rode from Tongue, over Mhoine last June. It was part of a 15 day trip 1. Mhoine needs improved as there is a very nasty bridge over part of the weir system, and to bypass you do get into some very tricky ground. Pony over hock in soft ground and we had checked a way before we rode it. 2. There is also a very soft section of about 10 yards about 1/4 mile from there. Both could be substantially impoved by a new , proper sleeper bridge with sides!! and a bit of drainage work at section 2 Currently I wouldnt recommend to the everyday rider and its not really very safe. Ive also ridden from Balnakeil at Durness, crossed the amazing Cashel Dhu ford on the Hope Road and continued south We have also crossed the old peat road from Crask to Badanloch... a good link to get east off road from Lairg area, but very unstable ground . I spoke with Foresty and Land Scotland as it is on their ground, but they say no funds to make improvements so if you try and ride it you need to pick your path VERY carefully and even then will meet very soft ground. We tried to use some CP at Durness, and Bettyhill area, but couldnt get a horse thro and that narrow road can be very busy I might not manage to come north to look at Mhoine in April /May as planning my long annual ride then, but happy to meet you mid June. There is a lot of lovely riding, but currently very "bitty" requiring a bit of roadwork.
Horse Access by TinaIrving
on January 28, 2024, 07:03:18 am
There may be access problems around the Sutherland Space Hub. Become a Friend of the North Highland Way, and get the latest information.
Re: Sutherland Space Hub by Tina Marshall
on January 23, 2026, 05:46:22 am
A number of places on the north coast have now agreed to stamp our passports at their outlets. www.friendsofthenorthhighlandway.com. There is also now an environmental magazine... it is available in Wick library.
Access issues on this section of the North Highland Way.
Murkle by TinaIrving
on November 23, 2023, 02:25:08 pm
A diary of a walker. https://coastalwalker.co.uk/2023/10/22/496-laid-to-eriboll/
We note that there are proposals to divert the CPN around Upper Big House Lodge. We note that people are walking on the road around Keiss instead of using the John o Groats Trail, as there are parts which are impassable. Also we have contacted the Murkle Campsite to see if problems at Murkle are being resolved.
We are looking at every area along the north coast, and have created a local forum to help us. In Thurso there is an active Facebook page. https://www.mylocalforum.co.uk/area/reay-highland-11059/introduce-yourselves-in-reay-169/north-highland-way-199061/
Bridge closures and other long term problems. https://www.highland.gov.uk/downloads/download/2014/su1905_bridgeclosuremap
There are issues at Dounreay relating to them not wishing to get people off the roads. This has been raised several times, but they simply refuse to assist. You can write to Dounreay at communications@dounreay.com to protest. The local people have, to no avail.
Members of the Sutherland LAF are invited to submit details here from the Sutherland Forum and anywhere else. I myself will be focussing on flood prevention in my research. I am aware of a study done by Aberdeen University, and talked to a number of local people in Golspie about it.
Flooding at Golspie is a... by TinaIrving
on November 07, 2023, 05:10:30 am
We input to this website in 2022, horse riders may wish to do the same. https://highlandadapts.commonplace.is/
There are issues at Dounreay relating to them not wishing to get people off the roads. This has been raised several times, but they simply refuse to assist. You can write to Dounreay at communications@dounreay.com to protest. The local people have, to no avail.
There are issues at Dounreay relating to them not wishing to get people off the roads. This has been raised several times, but they simply refuse to assist. You can write to Dounreay at communications@dounreay.com to protest. The local people have, to no avail.
There are issues at Dounreay relating to them not wishing to get people off the roads. This has been raised several times, but they simply refuse to assist. You can write to Dounreay at communications@dounreay.com to protest. The local people have, to no avail.
This section has been submitted to The Highland Council as proposed Core Path. Funding is being sought by the developer.
There is a fast running stream which is sometimes very high water. We are looking at this in November 2023 with the farmer.
We teamed up with the Caminos in Spain some years ago. We thought we might try and replicate it here.
Caminos of Santiago by TinaIrving
on October 14, 2023, 02:31:09 pm
There is no point in developing a route if it is not maintained. https://business.outdooractive.com/trail-manager
Maintaining the route by TinaIrving
on October 13, 2023, 09:07:12 pm
We have linked up with the South West Path and Lincolnshire as well, so we are on a roll. This is great for economic development.
Access meetings are held every six months. On 18th September 2023, I submitted documentation to The Highland Council. You can ask for it under FOI, unless you are a paid up friend of the North Highland Way.
Access report update 13/... by TinaIrving
on October 13, 2023, 11:40:59 am
1. Down the side of Windhaven where we built the path and it is not maintained. Core Path I believe. 2. Heathsfield is also Core Path and not maintained. The Dunnet Forestry Trust owns Heathsfield I believe. We put in a route from Heathsfield to Windhaven across the ditch, and put a bridge. This has not been maintained either. There is no point in you and I working hard to keep things straight, if other people don't. You did a lot of work at Brough when I was there. None of it is maintained.
There are access issues in Heathsfield and the core path to the beach at Brough.
The eastern side of Dunnet Head was originally on the aspirational routes of the core path plans in 2003. The aspirational routes are no longer showing on any maps in the public domain. The picture is just one issue.
There is an access issue at Killiminster. Just up the road from the farm on the corner.
Moray Firth Trail aka Jo... by TinaIrving
on March 31, 2024, 10:03:25 am
Default board this can be edit via the admin section of your forum
Re: North Highland Way by TinaIrving
on August 20, 2023, 11:33:58 am
These are the files from the Caithness Riders Access Group.
Caithness Riders Access ... by TinaIrving
on October 15, 2023, 12:23:41 am
We had a discussion with Paths for all last week.
Paths for all by TinaIrving
on July 04, 2023, 11:07:37 am
Dounreay and HIE continue to try to repress the project of the North Highland Way, despite community and business support.
Correspondence by TinaIrving
on July 03, 2023, 03:49:07 am
Correspondence
Correspondence with Loca... by TinaIrving
on July 03, 2023, 03:43:59 am
HIE - no response, ditto Dounreay. Maree Todd and Jamie Stone investigating. Documents will be put here. THC - meeting with Douglas Chisholm on 28 June sounded promising. Details to be put here when received. Ramblers - want the benefit, but don't want to help. Suggested that they contact Douglas with a letter of support.
We contacted them on 23rd May, but as usual a lot of voluntary work involved, so declined.
Correspondence with Loca... by TinaIrving
on June 23, 2023, 07:34:16 am
Communications with SCDI. Initial meeting revealed that incomers with education are not wanted, especially women. Highlighted Spain and heritage and cultural interests
Shetland trip - April 20... by TinaIrving
on June 23, 2023, 05:50:12 am
Correspondence with H&I Climate hubs, especially the ones to which I have not had the courtesy of a response.
Re: 16 June 2023 by TinaIrving
on June 19, 2023, 02:22:17 pm
Correspondence with the Highland Council.
Email to the Council 5 J... by TinaIrving
on July 05, 2023, 12:49:41 am
Friends of the North Highland Way are anyone and everyone who has assisted in developing the North Highland Way - either in monetary or time terms. We have not included the Caithness and Sutherland Ranger Service, as they are already funded, although we do of course support them in other ways.
You can purchase books from Amazon We also have a limited supply of Barry Beats Britain - The Coasters GB Story. Available for £5 + postage.
Heathsfield is core path, and not being maintained. The route between the house Little Clett and Windhaven to the shore is also not being maintained although it did receive public money in 2005. The route to the shore is full of holes and not strimmed. Very dangerous. Can only really walk as far as the bridge.
Issues at Dunnet and Brough. 1. Down the side of Windhaven where we built the path and it is not maintained. Core Path I believe. 2. Heathsfield is also Core Path and not maintained. The Dunnet Forestry Trust owns Heathsfield I believe. We put in a route from Heathsfield to Windhaven across the ditch, and put a bridge. This has not been maintained either. There is no point in you and I working hard to keep things straight, if other people don't. You did a lot of work at Brough when I was there. None of it is maintained.
We do not build the Moray Firth Trail, also known as the John o Groats Trail. The Association of Northern Trails Scotland are responsible for that, and have received a lot of public money. However, we are starting to observe that the trail is not being maintained, either around Embo nor three miles south of Keiss. There are places where it is just impossible to cross, especially near the Golf Course at Reiss, and further north off Keiss beach going south. There is a lot of water, and is impassable in places. On 31 March 2024, I found two gentleman walking on the road and asked them why, and they told me.
We do not build the Moray Firth Trail, also known as the John o Groats Trail. The Association of Northern Trails Scotland are responsible for that, and have received a lot of public money. However, we are starting to observe that the trail is not being maintained, either around Embo nor three miles south of Keiss. There are places where it is just impossible to cross, especially near the Golf Course at Reiss, and further north off Keiss beach going south. There is a lot of water, and is impassable in places. On 31 March 2024, I found two gentleman walking on the road and asked them why, and they told me.
We do not build the Moray Firth Trail, also known as the John o Groats Trail. The Association of Northern Trails Scotland are responsible for that, and have received a lot of public money. However, we are starting to observe that the trail is not being maintained, either around Embo nor three miles south of Keiss. There are places where it is just impossible to cross, especially near the Golf Course at Reiss, and further north off Keiss beach going south. There is a lot of water, and is impassable in places. On 31 March 2024, I found two gentleman walking on the road and asked them why, and they told me.
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Moving forward
by Tina Marshall
January 25, 2026, 06:54:54 am |
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Ambassadors for the World Trail Network
by Tina Marshall
January 24, 2026, 12:22:51 pm |
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Sutherland Space Hub
by Tina Marshall
January 23, 2026, 05:46:22 am |
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Heathsfield
by Tina Marshall
January 23, 2026, 01:26:13 am |
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Melvich
by Tina Marshall
October 29, 2025, 03:47:45 am |
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Dunbeath
by TinaIrving
July 04, 2025, 07:37:09 pm |
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Strathy
by TinaIrving
July 01, 2025, 07:36:01 am |
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Sutherland Access Forum
by TinaIrving
June 04, 2025, 08:45:59 am |
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Skirza
by TinaIrving
May 18, 2025, 08:48:24 am |
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Issues on John o Groats Trail
by TinaIrving
February 16, 2025, 01:19:58 am |
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Durness
by TinaIrving
May 24, 2024, 02:00:05 am |
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Murkle still a problem
by TinaIrving
April 23, 2024, 08:36:26 am |
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Cross Country everywhere
by TinaIrving
April 09, 2024, 03:03:58 am |
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Moray Firth Trail aka John o Groats Trail
by TinaIrving
March 31, 2024, 10:03:25 am |
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Cross Country Links
by TinaIrving
March 21, 2024, 02:38:56 am |
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VisitScotland
by TinaIrving
February 01, 2024, 02:08:54 am |
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Aberdeenshire
by TinaIrving
January 29, 2024, 10:10:59 pm |
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Horse Access
by TinaIrving
January 28, 2024, 07:03:18 am |
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Murkle
by TinaIrving
November 23, 2023, 02:25:08 pm |
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Flooding at Golspie is a problem
by TinaIrving
November 07, 2023, 05:10:30 am |
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Caithness Riders Access Group
by TinaIrving
October 15, 2023, 12:23:41 am |
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Caminos of Santiago
by TinaIrving
October 14, 2023, 02:31:09 pm |
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Moray Firth Coast
by TinaIrving
October 14, 2023, 02:26:47 pm |
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Maintaining the route
by TinaIrving
October 13, 2023, 09:07:12 pm |
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Access report update 13/10/2023
by TinaIrving
October 13, 2023, 11:40:59 am |
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Update 13/10/2023
by TinaIrving
October 13, 2023, 10:55:41 am |
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Mireland
by TinaIrving
September 20, 2023, 08:32:03 am |
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Killiminster area
by TinaIrving
September 14, 2023, 09:08:56 pm |
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North Highland Way
by TinaIrving
August 20, 2023, 11:33:58 am |
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Issues around Dounreay
by TinaIrving
July 25, 2023, 03:47:48 am |
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Email to the Council 5 July 2023
by TinaIrving
July 05, 2023, 12:49:41 am |
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Paths for all
by TinaIrving
July 04, 2023, 11:07:37 am |
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Correspondence
by TinaIrving
July 03, 2023, 03:49:07 am |
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Correspondence with Local Places and Highland Adapts
by TinaIrving
July 03, 2023, 03:43:59 am |
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From MacKenzie Sutherland
by TinaIrving
June 23, 2023, 07:52:57 am |
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Correspondence with Local Places
by TinaIrving
June 23, 2023, 07:34:16 am |
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Shetland trip - April 2024
by TinaIrving
June 23, 2023, 05:50:12 am |
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Discussion
by TinaIrving
June 23, 2023, 04:35:32 am |
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Highland Council and Caithness and Sutherland Rangers
by TinaIrving
June 23, 2023, 04:32:23 am |
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16 June 2023
by TinaIrving
June 19, 2023, 02:22:17 pm |