Loch Morlich retains Scottish Beach Award as new winners are announced
Loch Morlich beach was among the winners of this year’s Scotland’s Beach Award — which celebrates the achievements of well-managed beaches across the country.
With more than 50 beaches receiving the award this year, only four are based in the Highlands — including Nairn, Dornoch and Brora beach.
The acknowledgement is managed by environmental charity Keep Scotland Beautiful (KSB).
Its CEO Barry Fisher commented after the list was announced: “Scotland’s award-winning beaches demonstrate excellent beach management and we hope that all who visit this year play their part in keeping them beautiful.
“I’d like to congratulate all those who do so much to protect, maintain and enhance our beaches, protecting the sand and sea for us all to enjoy – from the local authorities to the communities who care so passionately about these phenomenal assets.
“Scotland's Beach Awards are the benchmark for quality, celebrating clean, well-managed and sustainable beaches and it is testament to those who look after them that so many have received awards over decades. We would love to encourage more communities to work towards accreditation of their beaches and are currently seeking sponsorship of the programme so we can enhance capacity and capability in communities which boast stunning beaches. Please get in touch if you can help us.”
Nairn Central is among a handful of beaches in Scotland which have retained the honour of award status for around three decades.
Vicki Miller, VisitScotland chief executive, said: “Scotland has thousands of miles of coastline, providing a huge choice of beaches to enjoy stunning scenery and unique experiences. Whether visitors are looking for tranquil islands and rural escapes or the bustling cities and towns boasting serene shores, there is something for everyone.
“Congratulations to all the winners for their achievements. It is particularly encouraging to see some beaches making a return to the awards. This demonstrates a real dedication to improving the visitor experience and environment. Our communities, along with our natural and cultural heritage, are what make Scotland so special. It is vital we protect and preserve them for the future.”
Focusing on local environmental quality, the award is designed to complement the work undertaken by the Scottish Environment Protection Agency on bathing water quality.
