Ambitious plans to turn Neptune’s Staircase in Lochaber into a “world-class tourism destination” have taken a step forward with the granting of planning permission for a new interpretation centre.
The string of loch gates at the western end of the Caledonian Canal, at Banavie, near Fort William, was designed by Scottish architect Thomas Telford and raises vessels to a height of about 70ft above sea level over a distance of around 500yds.
It already attracts thousands of visitors each year, but Scottish Canals believes it would be even more successful if it provided more facilities for both tourists and locals.
It has been granted planning permission and listed building consent to turn the old Saw Pit into an interpretation centre for Neptune’s Staircase, the Caley Bears shop into a Scottish Canals shop and for the Maintenance Bothy to be used as an “activity hub” for providers of outdoor pursuits.
However, the government-sponsored agency must secure funding before it can start work on transforming the buildings.
Development Surveyor at Scottish Canals, Keith Mackie, said: “While Banavie is already incredibly popular with visitors to the Caledonian Canal, it has the potential to be so much more.
“In collaboration with the local community, last year we set out a shared vision to transform Banavie into a world-class tourism destination and activity hub.
“This ambition forms part of our wider strategy that includes landscaping the car park, creating a new children’s play park, canal interpretation and new outdoor activity opportunities.
“Significant investment is required to create the new interpretation centre and we are currently seeking funding.”
He added that the agency was the custodian of many historic buildings that played an integral role in the 200-year-old history of the canal and said it aimed to safeguard that rich heritage and protect it for future generations by bringing these buildings back into use.
Mr Mackie said: “We’re very pleased that Rockhopper Sea Kayaking, who recently set up a canoe and bike hire business in the area’s old smiddy, has enjoyed a busy first summer.
“Free Spirit Boat Hire has also just set up shop and is offering something unique for visitors to Neptune’s Staircase – electric hire boats that allow everyone, from born-to-sail boaters to long-time landlubbers, to enjoy the majesty of the canal from the water.”