Nairn East beach gets almost £20k boost from the Community Regeneration Fund for a harbor path and beach shower unit.
The money will help create a harbor path and fund a beach shower installation. Councillors think this will boost local offerings.
A path is planned to connect the East harbor to the existing network. A 50m gravel path will make it more accessible. The path project costs around £10,600.
The new path will give access for all users because, currently, there is no clear access for everyone. The Nairn Access Panel suggested this path, which links two existing pathways directly. This improves area accessibility quite a bit.
Nairn Access Panel supports the project because they want disabled people to enjoy the views. Improving access to the beach is very important, and the path will go to the harbor wall. It offers views of the firth and east beach. Paths for All will help maintain the path, and Highland Council will also use property budgets to maintain it when needed for repairs.
The second project is a beach shower unit where people can wash off sand and saltwater. The shower goes at Nairn Links for beachgoers, which also benefits the swimming community.
Outdoor showers improve beach amenities, helping to boost beach area enjoyment. Nairn Links is a hub for beach activities, and showers let swimmers clean off easily. This encourages year-round beach use.
More beach use strengthens community ties because people share the beach as recreation. Showers encourage healthy outdoor lifestyles, improving both physical and mental health overall.
Green Hive, Nairn BID, and other groups support this shower. The initiative is expected to cost £9,100, and groups such as Nairn Selkies also support it. H&I Climate Hub backs this plan too, as well as Nairn Coastal Rowing Club and Paddle Bliss Nairn also participates.
Councillor Michael Green, the Nairnshire Area Committee chair, commented on the funding, saying they are delighted to support projects. The improvements will boost the coastal assets there.
Nairn beach is popular for strolls, and Green thinks everyone, regardless of ability, should enjoy it. He added that the beach shower is a great addition. It sits near the splashpad to help Team Hamish.
The committee agreed to improve Team Hamish. They will add a path to link the Marine Road carpark to the Links path near the pavilion, which improves accessibility at the Links area.