Community sauna approved despite 'mad party' concerns

Community Sauna Highland has proposed the facility for Bellfield Park

Councillors have approved plans for a 26-seat electric community sauna in an Inverness public park despite concerns from local residents.

Community Sauna Highland's proposal for Bellfield Park, which is in a residential area on the city's riverside, includes a cold plunge pool and changing room.

Culloden and Ardersier councillor Morven Reid said some objectors were concerned "mad late night sauna parties" could disturb their neighbourhood if approved.

But she said council officers had "more than adequately" addressed concerns around noise on the site.

Highland Council received 12 objections and 13 messages of support to the plans.

Officials at the local authority recommended Wednesday's south planning applications committee grant full planning permission, but with conditions.

They include restrictions on noise and a requirement that a member of staff is at the site at all times when open.

Among objectors' concerns were a lack of parking at the park and noise from visitors.

People supporting the application said it would help bring the community together and improve an "unsightly" corner of the park.

In a report to the committee, officials said the sauna would be screened from view by hedges and there were no plans for music or alcohol to be permitted.

'Community benefit'

During the planning meeting, Inverness councillor Isabelle MacKenzie and Caol and Mallaig councillor Liz Saggers attempted to reduce the sauna's operating hours to address noise concerns, but neither received majority councillor support.

Inverness Central councillor Michael Gregson said a sauna was not something the city was used to.

He said: "The hope is we'll achieve something of community benefit which will enhance the area and it'll be attractive, inclusive, accessible and good for mental health and wellbeing."

Sauna bathing is described as a form of therapy that takes place in a room usually heated by burning wood or electricity.

It is popular in parts of northern Europe including Finland, Sweden and Germany.

Bellfield Park, on Inverness's Riverside area, already has tennis courts and a council-maintained children's play area.

Reporting by local democracy reporter Will Angus.