Everything you need to know about AUOB's Inverness march later this month

The rally will be held on Saturday August 20 and kick off from Fisherman’s Carpark in Inverness.

Here’s everything you need to know.

Where will it begin?

The march starts at 12.30pm sharp from Fisherman's Carpark. Marchers are advised to leave early to be organised into formation by stewards – especially those travelling from afar who are best to give plenty of time for their journeys.

When are the stewards' briefings?

The organisers are seeking additional volunteer stewards. If you wish to join the team then please attend the stewards’ briefings which will take place at 11.30am and 12pm at Fisherman's Carpark. However, if you miss this then simply approach a steward when you arrive.

Which route will it follow?

Fisherman's Carpark, Bught Road, Ness Walk, Ardross Terrace, Ness Bridge, Bridge Street, Culduthel Road, Balloan Road, Castle Heather Park.

The organisers advise that this is a long walk, and so encourage all participants to bring water and wear suitable footwear. Organisers encourage participants with mobility challenges to assess the route in respect of where it's best for them to join- based on their own individual capabilities.

This could mean joining at the start or joining at a suitable point en route to Castle Heather Park, or whether to head straight to the rally.

READ MORE: Independence supporters to flood Inverness for AUOB rally this Saturday

How many people will attend?

AUOB estimate that over 1000 people will attend the demonstration.
Independence supporters are encouraged to bring instruments, drums and whistles for maximum audibility.

Which roads will be closed?

Road closures will be in place at Ness Walk, Bridge Street, Bught Road and Infirmary Bridge.

What information has Highland Council provided for marchers?

Participants are advised to plan their day to help the organisers and authorities ensure that the event runs as smoothly as possible.

Participants should note that,  due to the potential for traffic management issues, it is strongly advised that vehicles should not be parked at the Bught Park area. It is recommended that participants use sustainable means of Transport such as public transport, walking and cycling. Should you need to have a motorised vehicle it is strongly advised that you use the public parking located within Inverness City Centre and walk along the Riverside on the Cathedral Bank to the start venue.

Please note that Infirmary Footbridge will also be closed therefore access from the Castle Bank of the river will be over Ness Bridge.

There is no parking available at Castle Heather Park therefore it should be noted that participants will require to either use public transport, arrange lifts or walk back to the City Centre. It should be noted that on street parking, in this area, is discouraged and participants are reminded to be considerate in their approach to access.

With regard to the start location participants should, where possible, form up on the road and not encroach onto the park.

At Castle Heather Park we have received a request from a Local Member who has asked that the area opposite the basketball pole be avoided as this area has recently been re-seeded.

Who will be speaking at the rally?

Local SNP MP Drew Hendry will be addressing the rally. 

In the lead-up to the event, he said: "It's great to have this event in Inverness again where they have been so vibrant and impactful in the past. Now, more than ever we need to get the message out that Scotland will not be ignored and that we can choose a different path to the chaos and indifference served up for people by Westminster.

"We can see the harm of rising costs for families, soaring energy bills and growing inequality, especially when compared to similar - and normal - Independent countries. To change that we need to persuade those still to commit that we can - by putting a cross in the box for Independence."

There will also be speakers from InverYess, the SNP, the Scottish Green Party, the Alba Party, the Silent Clansman, XR Highlands and Islands, Sandra Proctor, Salvo and Farmers for Yes.

Entertainment will be provided by Kenny Jamieson, Andy Docherty, Gordy Strathdee, Andy Marshall and Ross Whitelaw.

Saor Alba Pipes and Drums will be the front band on the march, and the Yes Bikers will also be in attendance.

What's the dress code?

There is no specific dress code for the demonstration, but organisers encourage vibrant colours to be worn. Flags and banners (both Scots and international) are encouraged – for maximum visibility.

Participants are encouraged to attend no matter what, most important is to bring yourselves.

When is the next rally?

The next march is at Falkirk on Saturday 10 September.