The Highland Council has today 29 October 2026 launched a statutory Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015 consultation.
Nairn residents have until 24 December 2026 to respond to a change of use proposal affecting Common Good land.
The consultation seeks the views of residents of Nairn and other interested stakeholders on a proposal to develop a new bespoke public toilet facility on Common Good land adjacent to the existing toilets at Nairn Links Beach.
The proposed development would include a fully accessible Changing Places Toilet facility, providing additional space and specialist equipment for people with disabilities and accessibility needs, together with general public toilet facilities and outdoor beach shower provision.
The project, led by The Highland Council through the Nairn Common Good Fund, has been developed through extensive feasibility work, stakeholder engagement and community collaboration. To guide the project, a Board comprising representatives from The Highland Council, Nairn Improvement Community Enterprise (NICE), Nairn River Community Council and professional advisers was established to oversee the development process and consider options for improving public toilet provision at Nairn Links Beach.
Community engagement has played a central role in shaping the proposal. Through workshops, public exhibitions and an online consultation led by NICE, local residents and stakeholders were invited to provide feedback on three design options. Following consideration of the responses received, Option 3, the construction of a new bespoke public toilet facility emerged as the preferred option. The preferred design has subsequently been refined and is now progressing through the planning process.
The Council is now seeking views specifically on the proposed change of use of Common Good land required to facilitate the development. Feedback received during the consultation period will help inform the Council's consideration of the potential impact on the current use and enjoyment of the Common Good property, any benefits or disadvantages arising from the proposal, and any implications for the Nairn Common Good Fund.
All representations submitted during the consultation period will be considered before any decision is taken. Should the Council decide to support the proposal, it will be required to seek approval from the Sheriff Court before any change of use of the Common Good land can proceed.
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 24 December 2026 either by:
Online: Engage Highland
Email: common.good@highland.gov.uk
Post: Common Good Fund Officer, The Highland Council HQ, Glenurquhart Road, Inverness, IV3 5NX