AREAS of Inverness underwater and parts of other Scottish towns affected by 2050? Laura Pollock’s report in The National is an alarming survey with major implications for householders and businesses (The Scottish towns and cities that could be underwater by 2050, Nov 9). Throughout Scotland many properties, vital services and much arable ground comes under threat. The Highland capital and surrounding land is only one of many places which could be vulnerable.

READ MORE: Legal challenge against Rosebank oil field begins in Edinburgh

Of course the data collated by Climate Central may contain errors. Maybe, but in my lifetime the Beauly Firth is an indicator of two significant factors in the rate of environmental change. Firstly, a rise in tidal levels. and secondly much of the birdlife has vanished. No sweeping flocks of migrating waders, fewer gulls, no oystercatchers nesting near the sea wall. The prime arable land surrounding the west end of the firth was drained and protected by flood banks built by the estates 200 years ago.

Who is responsible for protecting these areas today? Who will foot the bill, council taxpayers, Holyrood? No waiting until Trump’s Westminster is underwater? It’s another race against the dangers of climate change. Independence! Scotland must decide.

Iain R Thomson
Strathglass