A new car park is on the cards for Talisker Distillery if Highland councillors approve proposals before north planning committee today.
Applicant Diageo wants to provide a total of 215 vehicle spaces in a four acre site adjoining the Skye distillery.
The first phase would involve re-configuring the existing car park to provide 36 spaces, including five disabled, and new facilities for a total of 145 cars and six motorhomes.
The second phase would provide a further 64 spaces.
The plans include landscaping and low level lighting to be operational year-round during visitor centre hours.
Concerns have been expressed about using the existing car park entrance, which objectors say is inadequate to cope with the additional volume of traffic.
Objections also include the potential of noise, dust, fumes, littering and light pollution affecting the six neighbouring residential properties at Paird Uilleim.
Concerns have been raised about the potential of construction traffic to cause congestion of the B9008, to the detriment of villagers and emergency vehicles.
Planners have acknowledged the impact on Pair Uilleim, and say Diageo’s proposed mitigation measures such as tree planting and acoustic fencing are welcome.
Diageo also says the gravel proposed for the parking bays will be contained by a stabilising membrane, preventing it from dispersing and causing dust.
They say a barrier will come down at night to stop vehicles entering.
Planners have recommended the proposals for approval.
