Lossiemouth residents face challenges as council withdraws support for vital car park.
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In a move that has left the Lossiemouth community reeling, Moray Council has announced its decision to walk away from the West Beach car park, a vital resource for local businesses and recreational groups. The council cited coastal erosion and a staggering repair bill, projected to exceed £750,0, as reasons for not renewing the lease, which is set to expire in January 2027.
Impact on local businesses and community groups
The decision has sparked outrage among local business owners and community organizations, who argue that the car park is essential for their operations. Ryan Thomson, owner of The Beach Hut café, expressed his frustration, stating that the car park’s uncertain future casts a shadow over his business, which had only recently reopened after a previous closure due to the ongoing issues surrounding the car park.
Moreover, the Moray Golf Club and the Moray Firth Water Sports Association, which has been a staple in the area for over two decades, are also feeling the repercussions. Ian Lambert, a member of the water sports club, highlighted the challenges they face in securing funding for future projects, only to discover that the car park they rely on may no longer be available. “The future of our club is just up in the air,” he lamented.
Community response and fundraising efforts
In light of the council’s decision, local groups are mobilizing to explore fundraising options to take over the car park themselves. However, many residents, including Carolle Ralph, chairwoman of the Lossiemouth Community Council, believe that the burden of maintaining the car park should not fall solely on the community. “We already do so much,” she stated, referencing the community’s efforts to combat coastal erosion and maintain local amenities.
As discussions between local groups and the council are set to take place in the coming days, there is a palpable sense of urgency among residents. Many are questioning how much more responsibility they can shoulder, with a growing sentiment that the council is neglecting its duties to support the community.
Looking ahead: Finding a solution
Alison Read, a development officer at the Lossiemouth Community Development Trust, expressed her disappointment over the council’s decision, emphasizing the car park’s critical role in the social and economic welfare of Lossiemouth. “So many groups use it,” she noted, highlighting the need for collaboration between the council and local organizations to find a viable solution.
As the community grapples with the implications of the council’s decision, there is hope that through collective efforts, they can secure the future of the West Beach car park. The upcoming meetings with the council will be crucial in determining the next steps and ensuring that the voices of Lossiemouth residents are heard.
