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Caithness leading way on tackling depopulation in ‘remote’ communities





Holyrood Notebook by Maree Todd

Wick John O’Groats Airport is a key hub for business, tourism and essential services.
Wick John O’Groats Airport is a key hub for business, tourism and essential services.

The Scottish Government’s strategy to combat rural depopulation emphasises that the perception of remoteness plays a role in driving population decline in certain areas.

The term “remote” – which the Scottish Government has rightly removed from its communications – is often used to describe Highland communities.

While the term evokes images of serene and beautiful landscapes, which is certainly true, it also carries negative connotations of isolation, disconnection, and a lack of opportunity. This is a problem because it overlooks the resilient and enterprising communities across the Highlands, which are offering unique opportunities for growth and development.

Changing the way we talk about the Highlands matters, but it’s not enough on its own. The issue of depopulation is complex and comes down to a mix of factors, including housing shortages, limited access to good jobs, an ageing population, and poor infrastructure. Access to childcare and education are also key. These issues are all connected, so we need to tackle them together with a joined-up approach.

That said, I really think we’re starting to make progress – not just in creating more economic opportunities and delivering practical solutions, but also in raising awareness about the unique challenges our communities face.

Maree Todd said the challenges need a joined-up approach.
Maree Todd said the challenges need a joined-up approach.

Take transport. Last week, the SNP Scottish Government announced that it will continue funding the Wick-Aberdeen Public Service Obligation for another year. This £1 million investment, along with a £300,000 commitment from Highland Council, provides stability for Wick John O’Groats Airport and protects local jobs – both of which are essential to the far north economy.

I have been a strong supporter of this route, as I recognise its role in driving economic growth and keeping our communities in the far north connected. Having this air link strengthens Wick John O’Groats Airport as a key hub for business, tourism and essential services, unlocking a wealth of opportunities for the far north.

A huge well done to Highland Council leader Cllr Raymond Bremner, council officers, and all the local stakeholders who’ve worked so hard to improve the route’s performance and make the case for ongoing investment. Their efforts have been key in securing this funding which will help us to keep looking at long-term opportunities to grow and sustain the airport.

While improving transport links is crucial, keeping our local roads safe and reliable is just as important. The landslip risk on the A9 at Scrabster has been a worry for a while now. Last month, I hosted a drop-in session with Transport Scotland to discuss the work planned to tackle it.

The repairs are set to start later this month, and once the main work is done, a wider hillside review will follow to spot any further preventative measures that might be needed. The A9 at Scrabster is a lifeline route, so it’s good to see action being taken to keep it safe.

Better roads mean stronger connections for communities and businesses, which is crucial for a thriving economy. That’s why I’m encouraged by the Highland Council SNP-Independent budget passed earlier this month. It commits once again to significant investments in our local road network, addressing the years of underfunding that previous administrations presided over.

On top of that, it’s great to see that despite the grim financial situation caused by Labour’s hike to employers’ National Insurance contributions, the council has managed to keep the council tax increase among the lowest in the country. That’s no small feat, considering the significant pressure on local budgets.

• Maree Todd is the SNP MSP for Caithness, Sutherland and Ross.


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