Castletown community councillors concerned about funding for village officer post
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
FUNDING for the village officer post in Castletown could be reduced this year. That is the concern of the local community council.
Secretary, Liz Geddes, pointed out the scheme includes the towns of Wick and Thurso as well as the landward areas at a time when the Highland Council is facing financial pressures.
"We do not know yet how much money we will get this year but the way things are it could mean we get reduced funding but we will have to wait and see what happens," she said at last week's meeting.
Treasurer, Gavin Sutherland, asked: "How can we keep up the level of work without the same money."
The funding is used to pay the village officer who cuts grass and helps to keep Castletown tidy. Andrew Ottaway, who does the job, is to retire so a replacement will have to be found. It was pointed out that the community council is looking at possible candidates for the role.
Meanwhile, members expressed concern about the number of overgrown trees, bushes and shrubs in parts of the village.
One area identified as potentially posing a problem is on Main Street at the A836 road junction leading to John o' Groats on one side and to Wick on the other.
Chairman, Billy Dunbar, said: "I can just see a car coming round there and no more because of the bushes." He thought the local authority should be keeping such areas cut back on safety grounds.
He argued that if the community council got adequate funds, it could employ someone "to do some of the things Highland Council should be doing."
Another area highlighted was between Harland Gardens and Harland Road. Bobby Magee said overgrown trees are "causing a problem" there.
Later, the community councillors heard that a tree planted in the village to celebrate the late Queen's platinum jubilee just over a year ago has not been doing too well.
"It is not looking good. It is a Whitebeam and is supposed to be a hardy tree," stated Mr Sutherland.
John Calder said it is hoped measures can be taken to help revive the tree.
