The Highland Council has today, 29 October 2026, initiated a statutory consultation under the Community Empowerment (Scotland) Act 2015. Residents of Nairn have until 24 December 2026 to respond to a proposed change of use affecting Common Good land.
The consultation seeks views on developing a new bespoke public toilet facility on Common Good land adjacent to the existing toilets at Nairn Links Beach. The proposed development includes a fully accessible Changing Places Toilet, offering specialist equipment for people with disabilities, alongside general public toilets and outdoor beach showers.
The project, funded by the Nairn Common Good Fund and led by The Highland Council, has undergone extensive feasibility studies and community engagement. A dedicated Board, with representatives from The Highland Council, Nairn Improvement Community Enterprise (NICE), and Nairn River Community Council, has overseen the development process.
Community input, gathered through workshops, exhibitions, and an online consultation led by NICE, identified Option 3 – the construction of a new bespoke facility – as the preferred design. This design has now been refined and is progressing through the planning process.
The Council is now specifically seeking feedback on the proposed change of use of the Common Good land. Responses will inform the Council's consideration of the proposal's impact on the current use and enjoyment of the land, potential benefits or disadvantages, and implications for the Nairn Common Good Fund.
All representations will be considered before a decision is made. If approved, the Council will need to seek authorisation from the Sheriff Court before the change of use can proceed.
Consultation documents are available on the Council's online platform, Engage Highland. Written responses must be submitted by midnight on 24 December 2026 via the platform, email to common.good@highland.gov.uk, or by post to Common Good Fund Officer, The Highland Council HQ, Glenurquhart Road, Inverness, IV3 5NX.
