FORT WILLIAM

Fort William Community Council (FWCC) held a meeting on Tuesday October 16 at An Drochaid, Claggan.

The following matters were discussed:

New Highland Council Buildings – A discussion took place about the saving of the old school building by the partnership of FWCC, the Arts Development Group, members of the community, a number of Highland Councillors and the guidance and advice from the local area administration of the time. The group was spearheaded by the then Highland councillor Neil Clark.

Previous to the cessation of FWCC it was intimated that the name Lochaber House should be continued or the Alexander Ross Building, as a memorial to the architect.

The community council’s suggestions, for whatever reason, were not put forward at the time of choosing a name. Members registered their disappointed, but said everyone must now move on but not forget the huge effort made by many in the community to save what FWCC saw as part of the town’s heritage.

The group’s aim that the history and memories of the old school building be retained for the community has come to fruition, although not fully as there is not as yet an arts centre.

Proposed merger of FWCC and Inverlochy and Torlundy community council – the secretary advised that she had completed the Highland Council (HC) community council (CC) scheme review questionnaire as directed, advising Alison Clark, HC acting head of policy, of the agreement of both CCs to request a boundary change. Alison and Dot Ferguson HC senior wards manager are both attending the Fort William Area Community Council Partnership meeting on November 14. The process and consultation requirements can be discussed then.

Area residents groups and associations – the secretary now has contact details for the Plantation Tenants Association.

A82 through Fort William – continual 30-mile-per-hour speed limit being pursued with Police Scotland.

Upper Achintore old school – still no word of demolition. Upper Achintore – new housing – discussed with Councillor Baxter the need for provision of good quality community/play area space which retains an astro turf sports area. FWCC working on this with the Lundavra Community Action Group.

Highland Cinema Project – Angus MacDonald has been invited to attend the November meeting. A number of community councillors were able to attend the open days in Cameron Square and were impressed with the plans for the building.

The next meeting of FWCC is Tuesday November 20 at 7pm at An Drochaid, Claggan.