Case made for new Thurso running track
That is the hope of Highland councillors Donnie Mackay and John Rosie who are confident the project will proceed.
A business case for the project is being undertaken by the local authority and could be completed by next month.
“I think we will get the running track at the Viewfirth,” said Cllr Mackay. “The council owns the land which is open space at the moment. It is very flat and ideal for a running track and is in a location central to the town.”
He claimed there is demand for the facility, pointing out that Thurso has been waiting for a proper running track for almost 20 years.
Cllr Mackay said the track at Thurso High School is not long enough and would like to see a full-size one built at Viewfirth.
“The council has ground there but if more was needed I am sure the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority – owners of the adjacent land which once housed the Viewfirth sports and social club – would come to an agreement with us,” he stated.
Funding for the development could come from Sportscotland and Highland Council, said Cllr Mackay.
“People are training by running on the streets in the dark and that’s not on. I am worried that somebody will get hurt.
“We have never had a proper running track and it would be a worthwhile facility for the town. The business study is being carried out by the council and I am sure we will get there,” added Cllr Mackay.
Cllr Rosie is also confident the track could be built on the council-owned Viewfirth site.
“I am particularly keen on this project as there are so many good athletes in Thurso,” he said.
“We had a sympathetic hearing at a full council meeting about a month ago. The business case is being undertaken at the moment and should be finished by February.”