A range of measures to improve public services in the Highlands has been announced as part of the Scottish Budget.
Record funding of six-hundred-and-sixty million pounds will be provided to Highland Council for 2026/27, an increase of thirty-nine million compared to the previous year.
Subject to approval by Parliament a further ten million has been allocated for improving ferry services.
Alongside this, a bus fare cap pilot initiative will be rolled out across the region, aiming to make bus travel more affordable, improve access for low-income communities, and support sustainable travel for people.
ScotRail has announced the implementation of a minimum fare to encourage passengers to buy tickets before travelling.
Fare evasion results in an annual loss exceeding eleven million pounds for Scotland’s Railway.
From April, passengers boarding without a valid ticket will be subject to a ten-pound minimum charge, which is higher than standard price tickets on shorter journeys.
It is anticipated that the policy will also reduce anti-social behaviour associated with fare evasion.
Details of exceptions, including National Entitlement Card holders, are available on the ScotRail website.
The annual ‘manure’ fundraiser for Ullapool Coastal Rowing Club will take place next month.
Manure, donated by Lucy Beattie, will be available for collection from Leckmelm Farm, between 11am and 1pm on Friday 6th and Saturday 7th March.
Alternatively, delivery can be arranged by contacting Topher Dawson.
…. and in the weekend football …..
Ross County drew nothing each away against Ayr United and remains at the foot of the SPFL Championship, level on points with Airdrieonians but with a worse goal difference by two, albeit with a game in hand.
In League One, Inverness Caley Thistle was held to a one-each draw by second placed Stenhousemuir, and remains at the top of the table by five points.
