A community-run marina in Lochaber is hoping to attract more sailing visitors following the addition of 10 new moorings.
The £21,000 project at Lochaline on the Morvern peninsula in Lochaber will also allow larger yachts to be more easily accommodated.
Visitor numbers have almost trebled since the original 24-berth pontoons and onshore facilities were installed four years ago.
Lochaline harbour and pontoon facilities now attracts up to 10,000 visitors every year, generating additional spending in local businesses and supporting local jobs.
And Morvern Community Development Company (MCDC) is hoping the latest addition will build on the marina’s initial success.
Angus Robertson, of MCDC, said: “The new moorings will allow demand during the peak summer months to be satisfied and we expect up to 2,000 additional visitors each year as a result.
“Income generated from the marina contributes to the sustainability of MCDC and helps it fund other projects that deliver numerous socio-economic benefits to the fragile Morvern community.”
The project – forecast to generate £9,000 of additional income per annum, supporting further part-time employment at the marina – attracted a grant of £8,000 from Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE)
HIE development manager Ian Philp said: “These new moorings fit well with the national strategy for marine tourism and will allow the community to take further advantage of the growing sailing tourism market.”
