Fort William can look forward to welcoming more cruise ships with the news that a funding bid for new pontoons has been successful.
The Fort William Marina and Shoreline Association plans to install a berthing station where cruise passengers can step ashore at the town’s west end car park.
The group has been informed that its application for funding to the Scottish Government’s Town Centre Communities Capital Fund has been recommended for approval.
The total amount to be received will be revealed on Monday, November 23.
Sarah Kennedy, secretary of the association, said: “I don’t know the amount we have been awarded yet, but we have asked for £163,042 which would fund the whole project.
“We are putting two 39ft pontoons, a 78ft berth, next to the west end car park in Fort William.
“It is mainly for cruise ships so that they can berth tenders and transport passengers safely and efficiently from ship to shore.
“We are hoping to get five cruise ships in 2017, cruise company Fred Olsen has come to us with five dates, and we expect to welcome one in 2016.
“Fort William is a great location for cruise ships, because half the passengers will go on trips to places like Glenfinnan and Drumnadrochit to see all that Loch Ness has to offer, and half will stay in town and hopefully provide a boost to the local shops.
“We had a very successful visit in August from the Adonia, which is a P&O cruise ship, and it was that visit that prompted our Highland councillors to realise we need a better way of welcoming visitors ashore.”