POLICE have confirmed they are not formally objecting to an All Under One Banner (AUOB) march set to take place next month in Skye.
The group's fourth independence march this year will be held on Saturday, August 26, and is set to see supporters walk from the mainland over the Skye bridge towards Kyleakin on the island's east coast.
AUOB had been told by Highland Council earlier this week that Police Scotland was planning to object to the march on safety grounds.
But the force has since told The National it has not and will not be making a formal objection.
It has, however, said it is working closely with Highland Council and organisers to come to a solution that enables peaceful protest.
Chief Inspector Scott Robertson said: “We are aware of the planned event. Our priority is public safety, and a comprehensive policing plan will be in place to maintain people’s safety, enable peaceful protest and minimise disruption.”
AUOB – which has not held a march to Skye before – said on social media police had expressed concerns about the route over the bridge.
The current plan is for marchers to use the footpath to make the crossing.
AUOB insist there is “no legitimate safety concern” and there would be further updates to come.
The full route as it stands will be Kyle of Lochalsh Leisure centre, Douglas Row, Plock Street, Main Street, Stoney Rd, Skye Bridge (footpath), Caol Acain, Kyleside, grass area in front of Kings Arms Hotel, Kyleakin.
An AUOB spokesperson said: "We will work with Highland Council and the police, however, this is the only viable route."
