THE question of building on Capel Inch was raised once again at Merkinch Community Council at their October meeting, held in the Primary School.

Councillor Peter Corbett agreed that there had been discussions on the sale of land back in July, but these had been confidential because of their commercial sensitivity. Highland Council was pretty confident that the land was theirs, although it was thought they did not have title deeds, and they had maintained it for the last 10 years.
He also said that there were up to four further opportunities for the Community Council to express its downright opposition to the plan - the first being the planning meeting which is still on the draft agenda for 12th November.
A bus is being organised for those who want to go to the meeting in the Town House.

Members heard that Cairn Housing who were seeking planning permission for Capel Inch, had £770,000 which they had to spend before April. “They’re in a hurry,” said one member.
Chairman Ally Maclean stressed that the Community Council would be objecting on planning grounds.

Donnie Kerr pointed out that Capel Inch could also be the site of a mediaeval boat-building yard and therefore of considerable archaeological interest.

• The Community Council also agreed to continue their opposition on the same grounds as before to Cairn Housing’s plans to develop 15 flats over three floors on the former Farmers’ Dairy site. Cairn Housing have apparently said they will go to appeal if they do not get permission.
• Mr Kerr commented that new washing lines had been erected in Upper Kessock Street area “after only three years”.
• Members all agreed that it would be good to see the former janitor’s house being put to good use as a Healthy Living Centre(see report on page 7).
• A couple of members of the public left during the meeting because they said they had not been able to hear a word. Chairman Ally Maclean said afterwards that if they had only mentioned it earlier they would have been asked to come in to the body of the meeting - members of the public were always welcome.
• The Community Council’s next meeting is at 7.30pm on 21st November in the Primary School.