A new luxury resort in the foothills of Ben Nevis could “plug a gap” for tourism in Lochaber.
The claim has been made by Forestry Commission Scotland, which put its ambitious £25million complex proposals on show to the public yesterday.
Local residents and businesses are being asked for their views on a masterplan for a new development at Leanachan Forest on the lower slopes of Scotland’s highest peak.
The project could include a five-star hotel and spa, a bunkhouse, up to 50 lodges and a campsite set in 7,300 acres of national forest, close to the existing Nevis Range ski resort.
The plans are being jointly developed by the Forestry Commission and Highlands and Islands Enterprise.
Craig Millar, local area manager for the Forestry Commission, said the proposals presented a “huge opportunity” for the area.
However, some local business owners expressed concern that the development could compete for market share in the lucrative tourism market.
Robin Morgan, who lets holiday lodges from his croft at Heron Bay, near Fort William, said he was disappointed at the scale of the proposals.
He said: “Things are tough enough as they are at the moment.
“Tourism is everything for Lochaber but smaller businesses can’t afford to compete for a share of the pie with the big boys.
“Businesses will disappear if this is allowed to go ahead on this scale.”
A draft masterplan has been drawn up covering four zones in the forest.
As well as the luxury accommodation suite, the plans include improvements at Nevis Range, a campsite area and the expansion of neighbouring Lochaber Rural Complex.
Mr Millar said he was confident that the development would not have a detrimental effect on other local businesses.
He said: “Our focus is very much on plugging a gap in the market which has been identified, which is accommodation suitable for families and so on.
“We are absolutely focused on expanding on what is here and not displacing any other businesses.”
Architect Alistair Scott addressed a crowd of around 50 people who attended the event at Nevis Range yesterday.
He said the resort would have a “unique” view of Ben Nevis, adding: “I certain this has something fascinating which will attract people.”
A public consultation on the plans will run until December, with a formal planning application expected to be submitted next year.