Plans to revitalise Cairngorm Mountain after the funicular was put out of action last year are being progressed by community leaders.
Highlands and Islands Labour MSP, Rhoda Grant, is backing Aviemore and Glenmore Community Trust in its effort to turn around the fortunes of the resort after the funicular was closed because of health and safety fears.
Trust director Mike Gale said: “It’s so important that we all pull together to help fix Cairngorm mountain.
“The community is working together and ready in waiting to help.
“Our ski area has such a huge influence on our winter business and our community’s health and well-being, it’s vital we act sooner rather than later to protect such a treasured resource.”
The aim is to help operating company, CMSL, develop the hill and ensure there is some momentum as the funicular lies unused – and unlikely to be repaired until next year.
Mrs Grant added: “I’ve been impressed by the energy and commitment of the directors who really just want to get on with something positive that the community can get behind.
“There has been mention of a new chairlift plan, a project that the community could get behind and help implement, which is also a chance for people to reconnect with the hill.”
Mrs Grant is hopeful that permission will be given for the trust to draw up plans and Ms Buxton has promised to raise the issue with CMSL.
Highland and Islands Enterprise (HIE) spokesman, Douglas Cowan, said: “Both HIE and CMSL are very appreciative of the huge interest and support for the mountain resort among several community and business groups that are active locally.
“HIE is the custodian of Cairngorm, but the mountain belongs to everyone and we are committed to carrying out open public consultation that will lead to the creation of a new masterplan.”
