Alistair Munro
Plans to ease congestion at Skye’s iconic Fairy Pools tourist attraction have moved a step closer after the Scottish Government approved a cut-price buyout of land required for parking.
A community transfer of land, priced at £27,500, from Forestry Enterprise Scotland to Minginish Community Halls Association (MCHA) for £2,500 was yesterday given the go-ahead.
Tourism Secretary Fiona Hyslop confirmed the deal while visiting Skye, where she also announced a special taskforce would be created to help the island cope with soaring visitor numbers.
Julie Burnett, a Director of MCHA, said: “This is a key milestone in the project to provide improved parking facilities close to the Fairy Pools.
“The community benefit of the land transfer and the overall project cannot be overstated. Both residents living in Glen Brittle and future visitors to the Fairy Pools will benefit.”
With well over 108,000 visitors last year, the existing 35-space car park was struggling to cope during the peak season.
The trust plans to accommodate 137 cars and 20 mini-buses and camper vans with a £500,000 development. MCHA recently secured £100,000 from Highland Council towards the project, which will include toilets.
Skye MSP Kate Forbes said: “The situation at the Fairy Pools has really become too much to bear for local residents who just want to go about their daily lives.
“We’ve reached a point where enough is enough and I’m pleased the Scottish Government is facilitating the community asset transfer at the Fairy Pools.
“Tourists are welcome on Skye, it’s our responsibility to ensure the infrastructure is prepared for them.”
The series of waterfalls and pools in Glen Brittle have become one of Scotland’s must-see tourist attractions.
Ms Hyslop said: “I am delighted Forest Enterprise Scotland have agreed to the sale of this land, which will help the local community respond to the pressures and opportunities that comes with having a world-class attraction like the Fairy Pools on your doorstep.”
Meanwhile, Ms Hyslop announced a new taskforce was being created for Skye to “help ensure a successful and sustainable future for tourism on the island”.
Kate Forbes added: “The problems of congestion, lack of toilets and conservation of our fantastic natural environment are well documented, and we need to be as ready as possible for next summer.
“I firmly believe Skye is the jewel in the crown of Highland tourism – as evidenced by the huge growth in visitor numbers.”
The Scottish Government also recently announced a new £6 million Rural Tourism Infrastructure Fund.
