Members of The Highland Council's Lochaber Area Committee met on Monday 9 November 2026 and noted progress across a range of local priorities, including the Corran Ferry service, community funding, local discretionary investment and improvements to burial grounds across the area.
Lochaber Area Committee Chair, Cllr Kate Willis, said: "The November Lochaber Committee meeting highlighted the broad range of work being undertaken across Lochaber to support our communities. From maintaining the vital Corran Ferry connection, to investing in community projects through local funding streams and planning for future burial provision.
"The Committee welcomed the progress being made across a number of important services to meet the needs of Lochaber residents now and into the future."
Committee members received an update on the Corran Ferry, noting the continued provision of this vital transport link for residents, businesses and visitors. Members heard that the service operated successfully for 98.5% of the available operating period between 1 January and 30 September 2026, with two two-day breakdowns accounting for just 1.5% of the 273 operating days.
The Committee also noted that, whenever an outage occurs, The Highland Council's Corran Ferry Contingency Plan is implemented immediately to help maintain access and minimise disruption to communities on both sides of the crossing. The Corran Ferry Infrastructure Improvement Scheme (CFIIS) continues to progress in line with key timelines.
The Committee also considered the administration of the Lochaber Common Good Fund, noting current commitments and the role to preserve community assets. Members, also agreed allocations from the Area Committee's Discretionary Budget, supporting a range of community initiatives across Lochaber.
The Committee additionally reviewed budgets and proposed works relating to bereavement services and burial grounds, noting ongoing investment to ensure communities across Lochaber continue to have access to well-maintained and sustainable burial facilities.
Members heard that three burial grounds currently included within the capital programme are projected to reach capacity within the next ten years and that work is progressing to ensure future provision.
At Glen Nevis Burial Ground, site clearance and substantial drainage works have been completed as part of plans to extend the existing cemetery. Trial digs are due to take place this month, with a planning application to follow. Subject to approval, construction works are expected to commence in early 2027. In the hope that (subject to trial dig outcomes and planning) can extend the site for a further 20 years.
At Kinlochmore Burial Ground, investigative work is continuing to identify a suitable location for a replacement cemetery. Trial digs have already been completed at a potential site, with the final report awaited.
At Morar Beoraid Burial Ground, adjacent land has been secured and fenced off to allow for a future extension of the existing burial ground.
The meeting concluded with members thanking Cllr Andrew Baxter for his service to The Highland Council and the communities of Lochaber. As he leaves his position as a local ward councillor, members wished him well and every success for his future.