🌟 Exciting Times Ahead in Our Community! 🌟 As the seasons shift, so does the buzz in our neighbourhood — and we can’t wait to celebrate with you all! 🎉
🌸 Flower Show – 6th September Join us for a blooming beautiful day filled with colour, creativity, and community spirit.
🎶 An Evening with Rhythm N Reel – 3rd October Get ready to tap your toes and dance the night away with one of the Highlands’ favourite bands!
Strathdearn Community Council would like to share the following information from Gemma Corbett of Balfour Beatty, answering queries from a previous council meeting and specifying locations for proposed art work on the A9 (see maps at end).
Dear Strathdearn Community Council,
I hope you’re doing well.
Following on from the Community Council meeting, which was held on 10 June, please see the attached responses following questions which were asked by members.
Art locations
At the Community Council meeting, we agreed to send screenshots of the location of each art piece. Please see this attached. Please note that these are rough locations and are subject to change as the project progresses.
Tree planting and pesticides
Thank you to the Community Council member for their question relating to tree planting and specifically, the pesticides that Balfour Beatty use on planted trees. We understand that the member is a beekeeper and is concerned about the pesticides used on planted trees. This is because some pesticides can be harmful to bees in particular.
Balfour Beatty will be planting UK native plant and seed mixes which are from the nearest provenance to our project site. Our contract stipulates that any chemicals used for pesticide application must be non-toxic to human beings, birds and animals – this extends to bees.
I hope the Community Council find this helpful and we look forward to attending future meetings.
Best Wishes
Gemma
Gemma Corbett
Community Liaison Officer | Balfour Beatty | UK Construction Services – Scotland
The Woodland Officer dealing with this application is Tabitha Ewing.
You can comment on the application through the Public Register using the link above; by replying directly via this email; or posting your comments to the address above. Your comments should reach us by 18th August 2025.
You may wish to consider the views of voluntary bodies or others with an interest in the countryside when you are formulating your response to the proposals. You may make available any information relating to the proposal which we have sent you.
If you have any feedback or concerns, please be aware that we will discuss these with the applicant and may forward any correspondence from you to the applicant or other stakeholders.
The following organisation(s) have been consulted\notified with regards to this application.
[Strathdearn Community Councillors have issued this request]
We are asking for people to stand for election as community councillors. We have five at the moment but need another three. Thanks to George Macleod and Hannah Yarr for stepping forward. Please consider joining them.
Please refer to this Community Council Election Timetable (issued by Highland Council)
Moy Country Fair takes place on Friday 8th and Saturday 9th of August 2025.
Balfour Beatty in partnership with Contraflow are providing traffic management to Moy Country Fair as a Benefit in Kind. This will be in place over the weekend on a part-time basis to manage the influx of traffic to the area. Please refer to the accompanying posters for more information.
We’re delighted to welcome Emma McBride, who started in June, commissioned through The Highland Council. Emma will be patrolling some areas in Moy throughout the summer season and will be with us until the end of October, working a mix of fixed and flexible patrol days to ensure maximum coverage and visibility onsite.
Her role focuses on public engagement and education, particularly around responsible outdoor practices. She’ll be speaking with visitors who may be wild camping, lighting fires, or engaging in activities that impact the local environment — promoting the principles of ‘Leave No Trace’ and encouraging respectful, sustainable land use.
As part of her duties, Emma will also be gathering data to help inform future environmental and visitor management strategies, including:
• Number of individuals spoken to
• Engagement metrics (positive/negative)
• Instances of extinguished fires and BBQs
• Number of dogs under and not under close control
• Litter collection and number of bags filled
• Count of vehicles, tents, and campervans
• Reporting of any unusual or concerning activity
If you see Emma during her patrol, please feel free to say hello!
To contact Emma about any ranger-related matters, call: 07345 427548
Please bear in mind Emma covers a large area, but she will respond as soon as she can.
In addition to her ranger duties, Emma is also a professional conservationist. We hope to arrange a ‘walkie-talkie’ session with her soon — a relaxed outdoor walk to explore and learn about the local flora and fauna around Loch Moy.
Susan Falconer, Chair of the Windfarm Sub-Group at Strathdearn Community Council, contacted our constituency MSP Fergus Ewing. She outlined community concern about the number of actual and proposed windfarms in our locality and our council’s campaign to make planning authorities aware of the cumulative effect of so much development.
Mr Ewing offered his support for the views of the community as expressed through the community council and he included a copy of the following letter which he has sent to Gillian Martin MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Climate Action and Energy.
Dear Cabinet Secretary,
Re: Windfarm Applications in Strathdearn Area – Cumulative Impact and Local Opposition
I am writing in connection with the current windfarm proposals affecting the Strathdearn area in my constituency. I wish to draw your attention to the very strong level of opposition within the local community, particularly with regard to the cumulative impacts of multiple developments on the surrounding environment and community well-being.
I am copying this correspondence, along with the attached documents, from Susan Falconer,Secretary and Chair of the Windfarm Sub-Group at Strathdearn Community Council, who has articulated in detail the concerns of residents and the community council. These include environmental considerations, visual intrusion, and pressure on local infrastructure and landscape – all of which have been compounded by the sheer number and scale of proposed developments in the area.
Given these significant concerns, and in light of the strength of local feeling, I hope that you and your officials will reflect seriously on the representations made by Strathdearn Community Council. In particular, I urge you to consider the cumulative impacts of these developments and give due weight to the community’s voice when assessing current and future applications.
I would welcome any opportunity to discuss this further or to facilitate engagement between your department and the affected community.
Yours sincerely,
Fergus Ewing MSP Independent Member of Scottish Parliament for Inverness and Nairn
Office of Fergus Ewing MSP, 112 Church Street, Inverness, IV1 1EP Telephone: 01463 713 004
The Community Housing Project continues to make steady progress. The timber-framed kits are now scheduled to be delivered in mid-July, which is slightly later than previously reported last month.
All foundations for the six properties have been completed, and the drainage and water main works are now nearing completion.
We are also pleased to share that we have been awarded grant funding of nearly £9,000 towards the cost of bringing electricity to the housing site. A heartfelt thank you to the Scottish Hydro Electric Community Trust for their generous support.
Hazelbank Woods – Community Ownership Celebration – Saturday 21st June
We held our official Community Ownership Celebration on Saturday 21st June in the glorious sunshine — a truly momentous day for the community!
The event began with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, followed by a fascinating talk from our Vice-Chair, Duncan Bryden, who shared maps dating back to circa 1590, illustrating how the woodland has evolved over the centuries to the present day.
This was followed by a woodland walk and a ‘Hunt the Hairy Haggis’ game. We’re delighted to share that Hazel the Haggis was found by Jack Meade (aged 6), who proudly won a trip to Farm Ness and a book.
A huge thank you to the Art Club, who lovingly and skilfully created Hazel — who we hope will feature in many more events and celebrations to come!
We are now beginning work on a light-touch Woodland Management Plan and look forward to involving the community to gather as many ideas and contributions as possible moving forward.
Moy Sub Committee
On the 19th June, the Moy Sub Committee met to discuss a range of local projects. It was a very productive meeting and well attended by Moy residents.
We are pleased to confirm that the Ranger Service has now recommenced in the Moy area and will continue to run until 26th October 2026.
Youth, Health & Wellbeing
Youth, Health & Wellbeing Funding
We are sincerely grateful to Strathdearn Community Charitable Trust (SCCT) for approving funding through the Youth, Health and Wellbeing Fund, enabling the continued delivery of these valuable activities for our community. The majority of funding is being contributed by SCD with SCCT’s support through the fund helping to ensure that all ongoing activities can continue to be delivered.
Teen Social Club and Toddler Group Finished for the Summer Holidays
The Teen Social Club and Baby & Toddler Group have now wrapped up for the summer holidays. Both groups will restart during the first week back of term (week beginning 18th August).
A huge thank you to all the families who have come along and supported these groups — your involvement helps provide essential social time for the young people in our community.
An extra big thank you to all the wonderful volunteers who give up their time each week. These groups simply wouldn’t exist without you!
Proof of Address Process for Health Club Memberships
Subsidised Gym & Health Club Memberships with High Life Highland and Bannatyne Health Club have been running since December 2022 and have proven to be a resounding success. We are delighted that 273 residents of Strathdearn are now signed up to the scheme.
As part of our financial audit requirements, we must demonstrate that the windfarm funding we receive directly benefits residents with an IV13 postcode. To support this, we are currently working with Bannatyne and High Life to introduce an annual proof of address process for members.
Once the new process is confirmed, we will be in touch with all members to outline the next steps.
Strathdearn Summer Camp 2025
Looking for local Summer Holiday Activities for Kids?
Highlife Highland is offering summer holiday activities for children in P1–P7 at The Strathdearn Hub! We have had 15 children from Strathdearn sign up so far.
🗓️ Dates: 21st – 25th July 🕘 Time: 9:00 am – 3:00 pm 📍 Location: The Strathdearn
🌳 Special Event – 23rd July: We are thrilled to welcome the Highlife Countryside Rangers, who will be leading outdoor nature activities in Hazelbank Woods—an adventure not to be missed!
💰 Subsidised Pricing for Strathdearn Families: SCD are delighted to support local families with a subsidy of 50%
£9.60/day for Highlife members (discounted from £19.20)
£19.20/day for non-members (discounted from £38.40)
🗓️ Book a single day or the full week!
📧 To book or find out more, contact: matthew.allan@highlifehighland.com
High Life Highland School’s out! Full Summer Programme
☀️ School’s Out – Let the Fun Begin! ☀️
High Life Highland’s full summer holiday programme is now live — start planning and booking favourite activities today!
⏰ 12:00 PM – Early access for All Inclusive & Budget Members
⏰ 3:00 PM – Access for Pay As You Go High Life card holders
Do not miss out — spots fill fast!
Kidz Club Update – New Location
The move to the school has been very positive — the children are thoroughly enjoying the larger green space and the variety of activities it allows! In addition to football on the pitch, they have also been having fun playing golf and even designing their own course with support from the High Life coaches.
Staying at the school has eliminated the need to escort the children to the Hub, which has been another welcome improvement. The school’s secure fencing has also made it easier for the children to move freely and safely between indoor and outdoor areas.
Snug paused for summer
We will be pausing The Snug throughout July and August due to a significant drop in attendance during these months.
We will look forward to welcoming everyone back in September!
Moo Music at Toddler Group
The Strathdearn Baby and Toddler Group welcomed Moo Music Highland for the first time ever this month! The children had a fantastic time dancing, singing, chasing bubbles, and bouncing balloons on the parachute.
A big thank you to Lesley from Moo Music for running such a fun session and making the journey out to Tomatin — we really appreciate it!
And thank you to the Tomatin Children’s Entertainment Committee for partially funding the activity.
Regular Monthly Activities
Pilates at The Strathdearn
Pilates with Marina continues to be a hit! Come along to build core strength, improve flexibility, and enhance overall body conditioning – suitable for all ages and abilities.
📅 Every Monday 🕚 11.15am – 12.15pm 📍 The Strathdearn Hub
SCD Gym & Health Club Subsidy
High Life Highland Memberships
Strathdearn Community Developments continues our collaboration with Highlife Highland and be part of the charity’s Wellbeing membership scheme, highlife.
As a Wellbeing member, High Life Highland provides a 10% discount off the standard membership price as they support and contribute to Strathdearn residents’ health and wellness.
Further to this, Strathdearn Community Developments have committed to fund 50% of the cost of the membership for all residents residing in the postcode area of IV13.
This reduces the price of a family membership to £19.35 per month and £13.05 for an individual membership per month. The highlife membership offers you and your family access to range of health and fitness opportunities in 25 leisure centres throughout the Highlands. The membership includes the following access/use:
Swimming pools
Leisure waters
Fitness suites
Strength and conditioning areas
Fitness room/Strength and Conditioning area Inductions
Term time swimming lessons for adults and children
Extensive range of group fitness classes for all abilities and interests
Running track
Climbing walls
Saunas, spa pools and steam rooms
Dynamic wellbeing activities and classes in partnershipwith NHS Highland
Children’s activities
Single court activities – badminton, squash, table tennis etc
Discounts on personal training, private swimming lessons and small group fitness
Early entry to our popular School’s Out Activity programme
7-day advance booking for all our activities and classes
Membership Prices:
Family Membership: £19.35 /month (discounted from £42.99)
Individual Membership: £13.05 /month (discounted from £28.99)
To sign up or for more information, please email projects@strathdearn.org or call 07703 328333.
Please Note: All membership addresses must be verified as IV13 postcodes (e.g., using a driving licence or recent mail with your name and address) to benefit from the SCD subsidy.
Bannatyne Health Club membership subsidy
IV13 residents can enjoy over 50% off for Bannatyne Health Club all-inclusive membership!
An all-inclusive membership with Bannatyne provides the opportunity for you to take advantage of their extensive health club facilities including swimming pool, sauna, steam room, and jacuzzi. There are several personalised services, including access to expert personal trainers and complimentary fitness evaluations when you join.
Further discounts include:
• 10% discount in the spa (Spa Days, Products, and Treatments)
• 10%discount in the café
• 10% discount on retail products
• 50% off the first spa treatment
Price: £20 / month (discounted from £46.99 / month + no joining fee)
For more information on all that Bannatyne can offer, visit the website: https://www.bannatyne.co.uk/health-club/inverness
To sign up or for more information, email projects@strathdearn.org or call 07703 328333.
Please note: All membership addresses will need to be verified as IV13 postcodes (i.e., with driving licence, recent mail with name and address) to benefit from SCD subsidy.
Free eBike hire for residents of IV13 for up to 2 weeks
Make the most of this fantastic summer weather and explore the area on one of the community’s eBikes – for free!
Thanks to our partnership with The Strathdearn, SCD is continuing to fund a 2-week free trial for all local residents. Just pop into the Hub and take an eBike out for a spin!
Already used up your free trial days? No problem – locals can still enjoy discounted rates at just £15 per day.
We now have handy route cards available, showcasing some of the best local day trips – perfect for a bit of adventure.
And for families, we have got Kids Ride Shotgun attachments (suitable for ages 2–5), so your little ones can come along for the ride too!
HAZELBANK WOODLAND CELEBRATION – Saturday 21st June 2025
A big thank you to all the families who attended the celebration of the community purchase of the woodland.
Well done to Jack and his family for winning a family pass to Farm Ness and Hamish the Hairy Haggis book for finding Hazel the Hairy Haggis!
BOUNCE AT THE MUGA – Thursday 3rd July 2025
Bounce into the Summer Holidays!
Strathdearn kids aged from 1 – 12 years old
The countdown is ON! When the school bell rings at 12pm on Thursday 3rd July, head straight to The Strathdearn for an afternoon of inflatable fun!
Bring the kids to bounce to their hearts’ content on a fantastic variety of inflatables, and cool off with a tasty treat from McCone’s Ice Cream Van
Event starts at 12pm sharp Just £3 per child – pay at the gate (cash or card welcome).
Let’s kick off the summer holidays with a blast!
SUMMER FUN DAY – Saturday 9th August 2025
Join us on Saturday 9th August 2025, from 4:00 PM to 10:30 PM for an unforgettable day packed with fun for all ages!
FREE ENTRY!!
What’s happening at the event:
4pm – 7pm
DJ set by Executive Entertaiment (Disco Inverness)
Inflatable bouncy castles
Face painting
Reptile encounters
Laser Go VR sessions
Calum’s Kitchen – delicious street food (4pm – 8pm)
Treats on the Street – freshly made donuts, bubble waffles and ice cream (4pm – 8pm)
Licenced Bar by Tastes of Tomatin (4pm – 10pm
7pm – 10:30pm
We are thrilled to welcome MacTa to the stage at 7pm. 🎤✨
This talented 6-piece band from Moray, in the Northeast of Scotland, brings a rare blend of experience and musical flair that’s sure to get everyone on their feet. From classic and contemporary pop and rock to Rock & Roll, Country, and even Scottish dance tunes, MacTa delivers a soundtrack that suits every occasion.
Whether you’re here to dance, sing along, or just soak in the atmosphere, MacTa will make it a night to remember! 🎸💃🕺
FLOWER SHOW – Saturday 6th September 2025:
It’s time to get planting, growing, and unleashing your creativity for this year’s Strathdearn Flower Show! Whether you’re a budding gardener, a baking enthusiast, or a creative soul, there’s a category for everyone.
🌼 Categories: 🌺 Flowers 🍰 Baking & Produce 🥕 Vegetables 📷 Photography 🌻 Children’s Section (Grow Your Own Sunflower & Create Your Own Garden Tray)
⏰ Key Times: 📜 Entries Open: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM 🚪 Open to Public: 2:30 PM 🏆 Trophy Presentation & Raffle: 3:00 PM
Join us for a celebration of gardening, creativity, and community spirit. Whether you’re entering or simply admiring, it’s a day not to be missed!
🌸 See you there! 🌸
AN EVENING WITH RHYTHMNREEL – Friday 3rd October 2025
🕢 Doors Open: 7:30 PM 🎤 Show Starts: 8:30 PM
Get ready for another unforgettable night as the incredible Rhythmnreel return to The Strathdearn! Known for their high-energy performances and infectious Celtic rock sound, this band never fails to get the crowd going! 💃🕺
Expect a night full of foot-stomping tunes, powerful rhythms, and unmatched atmosphere. Whether you’re a long-time fan or seeing them for the first time, you’re in for a treat!
📅 Don’t miss out – come early, bring your dancing shoes, and let’s make it a night to remember!
🎟 Tickets for IV13 residents*
Adults £15
Children £7.50 – all children U18 must be accompanied by a parent
*Early bird tickets will be on sale for IV13 residents on Monday 30/06/25 at 5pm – book early to avoid disappointment.
🎟 Tickets for Non IV13 residents:
Adults £20
Children £10 all children u18 must be accompanied by a parent
General sale will be available on 25/08/25.
🍽 Food & Drinks:
Complimentary hot filled rolls included with your ticket.
Visit Document Library if you are looking for any of the following: Newsletters; Minutes of meetings; Application forms; Accounts, projects and other info on SCD and SCCT.
We are excited to screen our 2-minute film showcasing our local attractions and The Strathdearn Complex. Journey from the wild high glens and their wonderful nature, along the River Findhorn, to the Tomatin Distillery on to Loch Moy and the excitement of the Moy Games.
Walk-through and aerial footage of The Strathdearn Hub
Welcoming Our Seasonal Ranger – Emma McBride 
