The installation of low‑energy lighting along the south side of the Wick Riverside core path network, which is an accessible route and will benefit the community, walkers and visitors.
Estimated Price
130000
1. What do you want to do?
Wick Riverside is one of the most popular path networks in Wick, used year‑round by residents and visitors. While the north side of the river is already lit, the south side has no lighting, significantly limiting its use during the darker winter months.
This project proposes the installation of low‑energy lighting along the south side of the Wick Riverside core path network.
The works will complement the wider accessibility and surface improvements already delivered at Wick Riverside by the Trust and community partners, ensuring the whole circular route can be safely enjoyed throughout the year.
Wick riverside paths are transformed after ‘real community effort’
2. Why is your project important for your community?
Wick Riverside is a central, much‑loved green space used daily by walkers, runners, cyclists, families, wheelchair users and visitors. It also provides the setting for major community events including the Caithness County Show, Wick Gala, fun fairs, fireworks displays and seasonal celebrations, attracting thousands of attendees each year.
People counters installed by the Royal Burgh of Wick Community Council in July 2025 recorded 12,227 uses in August alone, equating to an estimated 125,000 annual users of the riverside path network.
Estimated 125,000 walkers a year using Wick riverside footbridges
Installing lighting strongly aligns with priorities in the Caithness Local Place Plan by improving:
• Access to wellbeing spaces
• Opportunities for active travel
• Evening and winter use of a key recreational route
Lighting the south side will make a well‑used and central community space safer, more accessible and more inviting throughout the year.
3. What positive impact will your project have?
- Improved safety for walkers, runners, families and mobility‑impaired users, especially during winter and early evenings.
- Extended usable hours, supporting active travel, recreation, dog walking and exercise outside daylight hours.
- Increased participation in evening community events, group activities and local clubs. The North Highland Harriers Running Club use the route weekly in lighter months, this would expand the use of the route to all year round.
Enhanced accessibility, ensuring the entire riverside route is inclusive all year round.
Stronger community pride through visible investment in a highly valued public space.
While Wick River Campsite is closed during the winter months, the lighting would improve the visitor experience during April & October, enabling visitors at Wick River Campsite to safely walk or cycle into town, supporting local businesses.
4. What key milestones have you achieved so far and what are your next steps?
Community Engagement & Support
The proposal has been reported in the local press and received strong support on social media. Community feedback emphasised safety, accessibility and the benefits of extending evening use of the riverside.
‘It’s about making it safer’: New lighting proposed at Wick riverside
The project has also been discussed with and supported by Wick Paths Group and the Royal Burgh of Wick Community Council. Further community engagement and registers of support will be undertaken
Necessary Consents
Plans have been developed in partnership with Highland Council’s lighting team.
Formal landowner permission can be secured via The Highland Council
Quotes Obtained
One contractor quote has been received, with further quotes to be sourced. The quote includes the complete works, including:
• SSEN connection
• Track excavation
• Cable laying and electrical connection
• Installation of 27 lighting columns
Funding Applications
Potential funders are currently being identified. Uploading the proposal to BeConnected has been our first step in seeking funding support.
Next Steps
• Secure remaining quotes
• Obtain formal landowner permission from THC
• Confirm funding package
• Finalise installation programme to minimise community disruption
5. Anticipated Start and End Dates
Because this path also serves as an access point to Wick River Campsite, timing must be coordinated carefully with contractors and campsite operations.
An earlier start might be possible but October is likely the most suitable month to minimise disruption, with an estimated 8‑week lead‑in time, and approximately 2–3 weeks required for installation.
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