About our ward
Wester Ross, Strathpeffer and Lochalsh
Wester Ross, Strathpeffer and Lochalsh is one of the largest and most geographically diverse wards in the Highlands. From the spa village of Strathpeffer and the communities of Contin and Garve, the ward stretches west through Lochcarron and Lochalsh, across Applecross and Shieldaig, and north to Gairloch, Poolewe, Aultbea and Ullapool, with many smaller townships and crofting communities in between.
It is a ward shaped by distance and landscape. Long journeys, single track roads, ferries and limited public transport all influence access to healthcare, education, employment and council services. At the same time, the area is home to strong and resilient communities, a rich cultural heritage and a proud tradition of local initiative and volunteerism.
Tourism, crofting, small businesses and the marine economy are central to local life, alongside the importance of public services and community facilities. Supporting these and ensuring they work for rural areas is key to sustaining population and enabling people to remain in their communities.
While geographically vast, the ward is made up of distinct places, each with its own priorities and character. What they share is the need for fair funding, accessible services and decisions that reflect the realities of rural Highland life.
Communities in our ward
Strathpeffer Srath Pheofhair
Achintraid Achadh na Tràighe
Dornie An Dòrnaidh
Kinlochewe Ceann Loch Iùbh
Laide An Leathad
Contin Cunndainn
Stromeferry Port an t-Sròim
Applecross A’ Chomraich
Gairloch Geàrrloch
Ullapool Ulapul
Garve Gairbh
Plockton Am Ploc
Shieldaig Sìldeag
Poolewe Poll Iùbh
Lochcarron Loch Carran
Kyle of Lochalsh Caol Loch Aillse
Torridon Toirbheartan/Tòrr Iodain
Aultbea An t-Allt Beithe
A full list of the communities and settlements within the ward can be viewed below…
Our ward in song
Music has always been a huge part of my life and of the communities across Wester Ross, Strathpeffer and Lochalsh. Our landscapes, history and traditions are woven into the songs and tunes that have been passed down through generations.
I was fortunate to grow up in a Highland community where traditional music was at the heart of local life, and in a family of talented musicians, from pipers to singers. Many tunes that are known and loved across the world make reference to our beautiful part of the Highlands, and I am proud of the role our area has played in preserving that heritage.
When I'm out on the campaign trail, music is never far away. Below are some of my personal favourites that keep me going, from Andy Stewart to Fergie MacDonald – some absolute Highland classics.
Dancing in Kyle – Alexander Brothers
Released 1960s, celebrating Kyle dancehall nights; Alexander Brothers popularised Highland social nostalgia through television, records, and touring ceilidh performances.
Kishorn Commandos – North Sea Gas
Written by Johnny Cunningham 1970s about Kishorn oil yard workers; North Sea Gas recording celebrates camaraderie and Wester Ross industrial heritage whilst also leaning into some all familiar stereotypes.
The High Road to Gairloch
Traditional pipe march from nineteenth-century Highland repertoire, associated with travel to Gairloch, commonly performed in competitions and local ceremonial occasions.
Loch Maree Islands – The Tartan Lads
Instrumental accordion standard, composed by Fergie MacDonald 1970s, depicting Loch Maree scenery; widely recorded and staple of Highland dance repertoire.
The Road to the Isles – Andy Stewart
Lyrics by Kenneth MacLeod, music Marjory Kennedy-Fraser; Andy Stewart’s 1960s recording popularised romantic journey via Kyle toward Hebridean ferries.
Loch Maree – Calum Kennedy
Calum Kennedy recorded this Gaelic-influenced tribute mid-twentieth century, celebrating sacred Loch Maree traditions and reinforcing his Highland broadcasting popularity nationwide.
The Shinty Referee – Fergie MacDonald
Released in the 1990s, a humorous shinty song by accordion legend Fergie MacDonald, namechecking our local communities and reflecting sport’s cultural importance locally.
The Summer Walkers – Runrig
Track from 1987 album The Cutter and the Clan, referencing Loch Maree; Runrig explore Highland displacement and seasonal migration traditions.
Caledonia – Bert Jansch
Jansch recorded Dougie MacLean’s 1977 composition, interpreting diaspora longing; his folk revival status connected Scottish songwriting with international acoustic audiences.