Row erupts after clan chief blocks off access to Nairn beauty spot

By ALISTAIR MUNRO
Published on 04/12/2012 15:05

A CLAN chief has sparked a row with Highland Council after barring vehicle access to a beauty spot at the seaside resort of Nairn.

• Vehicle access for popular beauty spot in Nairn is sealed off by clan chief

• Alexander Brodie claims car park attracts anti-social behaviour and “immoral” hunting

The dispute between Alexander Brodie of Brodie came to a head when he erected a gate at Kingsteps, Lochloy, on the outskirts of the Morayshire town.

The 27th Clan Chief of Brodie has hit out at anti-social behaviour at the car park, particularly young people arriving in cars and playing loud music.

He also claims the road is often used by shooters to access wildfowl on the reserve, a practice that, wile not illegal, he deems “morally wrong”.

Highland Council believes the route is a longstanding right of way and had, in the past, provided funding for its upkeep.

But despite several meetings in a bid to reach a compromise, the clan chief has gone ahead with his threat to place a barrier to prevent vehicles access.

The local authority says it may now have to take action through the courts in a bid to reinstate access to the car park.

The location is a popular attraction, as its provide access to the town’s beautiful beaches. It is also popular with dog walkers.