Skip to content

Viewpoint tourist attraction firm defends its plans

Cameron Angus-MackayBBC Scotland
News imageHarrisonStevens An architect's drawing of a proposed visitor centre below a road. It is built into the landscape, surrounded by trees. The building is long, with glass windows on the front and a flat roof. There are figures walking around a landscaped area of the roof which features grass and benches. HarrisonStevens
The company said its plans - as seen in this impression of how they might look - would deliver "meaningful investment"

The company behind plans for a tourist attraction at the Glen Garry viewpoint in the Highlands has suggested the project could enhance road safety.

Black Sheep Management Services (BSMS) - which operates a number of hotels and restaurants - has submitted an application for a visitor centre, café, shop and car park on the A87 road to Skye.

Local residents have raised concerns about traffic congestion, environmental impact and competition with a community hall.

A spokesperson for the company said the development would "deliver meaningful investment in rural infrastructure" by replacing an existing lay-by with car and coach parking.

News imageHarrisonStevens An architect's drawing of a proposed visitor centre overlooking Loch Garry. People are walking on a large roof towards a glass balcony. There are mountains in the distance and a loch far below the building. The sun is setting in the sky. The edge of a road, bordered by flowers, can be seen to the right of the image.HarrisonStevens
The Lochaber vista is often said to look like a map of Scotland

The Lochaber vista on the A87 road to Skye is often said to look like a map of Scotland.

BSMS has said a new "managed facility" would help address the problem of litter and waste being left at the viewpoint.

The company said the proposed development could create 30 full-time and 20 part-time locally-based jobs.

Visitors would pay for parking longer than 15 minutes but the local community would have free access.

More than 100 people attended a public meeting in Invergarry last week but without representation from the company.

BSMS has offered to meet with the local community at a drop-in event on Thursday, between 13:00 and 18:00, at Glengarry Community Hall.

A spokesperson added that the company welcomed the chance to address concerns and provide feedback.

The planning application has been submitted to Highland Council.