A touch of the Finnish countryside could soon be seen in Lochaber if new plans are given the go-ahead.
Proposals to install six holiday cabins and a spa unit in Ballachulish have been lodged with Highland Council.
The camping cabins are inspired by traditional ones seen in Finland – with an octagonal design – and they are built to sit in harmony with their surroundings.
If given the green light, the cabins and spa would be situated on land at the Old Rectory, West Laroch in the village, and there would be parking space for eight cars.
Each cabin would have 68 feet of floor space, with an ensuite bathroom and side extension. The walls would be almost two inches thick and low voltage underfloor heating would be installed in each one.
The cabins are designed to sleep up to four people and are constructed using slow-grown spruce. They are all portable and can also be easily removed once assembled.
The spa unit would be made up of two cabins linked together and would contain a sauna as well as a hot tub.
It is planned to space the cabins out on the site with pathways in between and an existing shed on the land would be removed to accommodate the layout.
The Lochaber Disability Access Panel has reviewed the application and members felt that, because the cabins are in a popular family holiday destination, elderly or relatives with lower mobility impairments may be using the accommodation.
After discussion, the panel agreed that consideration should be given to introducing a ramped access into one of the cabins. This could be a temporary ramp for use by an ambient walker or visually impaired person.
The proposals are due to come before the council’s planning committee meeting next month.
