The Highland Council has today 15 October 2026 launched a statutory Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015 consultation.
Dornoch residents have until 10 December 2026 to respond to a proposal affecting Common Good land.
The Dornoch Beach Wheelchairs charity group propose to install a Changing Places Toilet facility including necessary infrastructure adjacent to the car park at Dornoch Links Beach. The facility is intended to compliment and further support the group's work in improving physical access to the beach for people with mobility and additional needs. The group currently operates a storage facility for beach wheelchairs at the site, and the intention is to manage both facilities under a 25-year lease.
A Changing Places Toilet facility is a specialist accessible toilet designed for people with disabilities who require additional space and equipment beyond that provided in a standard accessible toilet. Typically, these facilities include an adult-sized changing bench, ceiling hoist, accessible toilet and space for carers, enabling users to access the facilities safely, comfortably and with dignity.
The Council is keen to hear from Dornoch residents and other local stakeholders regarding the proposal. The consultation will help the Council understand any potential benefits, concerns or impacts the proposal may have on the current use, enjoyment and management of the Common Good asset.
All representations received during the consultation period will be considered before a decision is made. If the Council decides to support the proposal, it will need to seek consent from the Sheriff Court before any disposal or change of use of the Common Good land can proceed.
Consultation responses and the final decision will be published on The Highland Council's website.
The consultation relates specifically to Common Good requirements under Section 104 of the Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015. Should the proposal progress, additional statutory consents such as planning permission would still be required.
The consultation and associated documentation can be accessed via the Council's new online consultation platform, Engage Highland.
Please submit written responses no later than midnight on the 10 December 2026 either by:
Online consultation platform: Engage Highland
Email - common.good@highland.gov.uk
Post - Common Good Fund Officer, The Highland Council HQ, Glenurquhart Road, Inverness, IV3 5NX