Arts get funding. Tourist tax plan is considered. A96 dualling timeline delayed for another year.
The arts are very important, especially now. They boost well-being, offering experiences. A thriving sector benefits the economy too. The Scottish Government used UK funds well this time. Many arts groups still struggle financially, though.
A promised budget increase is not yet real. Creative Scotland needs stable budgets. Last year’s cuts hurt many applicants. Support for Eden Court is good news for the Highlands. The Scottish Government must support the arts more.
A tourist tax is being considered by Highland Council. Updates are needed on spending the tax money. Some worry locals will pay the tax too. They fear it will fund unnecessary projects.
Some think the government ignores the tourism industry’s needs. They believe flaws exist in the tourist tax plan. A timeline for A96 road work will take another year. Transport Scotland needs more time to plan.
They must determine the best process. Rhoda Grant confirmed this timeline detail, for the road dualling. Some people are frustrated by the A96 delay. Some think nothing will happen soon.
Others suggest improving train travel instead. One person thinks legal issues are causing delays. Land purchases created unhappy people. They abandoned the project once before, long ago.