Dingwall rallying calls ahead of 800th birthday
A GRIM assessment of Ross-shire’s county town following the shock revelation of a cannabis factory on its High Street has prompted a rallying call ahead of its 800th birthday.
Gloomy pictures of the royal burgh’s High Street circulated widely after last week’s raid, which resulted in the arrest of two men, prompted a frenzy of negative social media comment with many claiming it had “gone downhill” and some characterising it as “a dump”.
That in turn prompted a counterattack from community stalwarts striving to foster its “huge potential and creative ambition” ahead of 2026 celebrations of its 800th birthday.
As well as the drugs factory, the last month witnessed closure of a much-loved cafe due to fire. A number of commercial premises remain unoccupied and a former pub has lain derelict for years, an eyesore right at the heart of the town.
But with the historic milestone edging closer and civic pride at stake, calls are now being made to highlight the many “green shoots of recovery”.
In May, Highland Council agreed to allocate £51,000 in community regeneration funds for Dingwall.
Ambitious plans are also being devised for a revamp of Pefferside Park and the iconic Hector Macdonald Monument is set for a £160,000 investment that will finally allow it to be reopened to the public.
Local councillor Graham MacKenzie said: “I’m not sure I share the more negative views [held by some] of our High Street. There is work to be done but I believe there are some green shoots of recovery.”
MSP Kate Forbes, whose constituency office is based on the High Street, said: "While Dingwall High Street has certainly faced challenges, there remains a lot to celebrate. Recent months have featured new stores opening, such as a new sweet shop, a pet shop, and there's a New Start store opening soon.
"The town also has more tourist footfall in the summer months and they enjoy the high-quality gift shops and unique bookstores.
“And we all have a big heart for the bakery Deas, the delightful courtyard cafe, and Wimpy's famous milkshake. And that’s not to forget my own constituency office, which regularly has people popping in to discuss local issues, ask for help or to discuss the many highs and occasional lows of being a Ross County supporter.
“With the town's 800-year anniversary on the horizon, I'm keen to see local businesses come together to celebrate Dingwall and to work together to broadcast the many vibrant businesses on offer. I think the town has huge potential and would benefit from more locals realising their creative ambition—to drive local growth and provide more opportunities."
Dingwall Community Council chairman Andrew Macivor said: “Dingwall has more positives than negatives - we have a great community and great people who volunteer their time to do many things to enhance the town.
“Our Gala week is just around the corner on June 28. Dingwall's 800th birthday preparations are also well underway with many events planned for next year to celebrate Dingwall as a royal burgh.
“The town could do with a bit of investment on the High Street to brighten it up a bit, and the surrounding areas of the town.
“However, Dingwall is not the only town suffering at the moment. Hopefully we can get some money spent on the royal burgh to make it great again, for everyone to enjoy.”
