Storr Future Development
The next stage of ongoing development and enhancement of facilities at the Old Man of Storr were approved at the Isle of Skye and Raasay Area Committee today (29 November 2021).
Building on the recent improvements made to parking, path networks, toilet and motorhome facilities, this next stage of development is geared towards the sustainable management and maintenance of the Old Man of Storr site, as well as encouraging local business opportunities and income generation for the Council.
Isle of Skye and Raasay Area Committee Chair, Cllr John Gordon said: “Members’ approval today marks significant progression for all involved in getting the Storr future development to this stage. It acknowledges the comprehensive work by Glenmorven Associates, to establish a viable business case for a retail outlet at the Old Man of Storr. It has been carried out with great care and attention, ensuring effective stakeholder engagement whilst providing a range of options and opportunities for sustainable and effective site management and income generation at the Storr site. The developments proposed demonstrate innovation, supports the local circular economy, is considerate of the environment and our Gaelic culture. Planning for implementing these improvements can now begin to get underway and progress reports will come to future area committees.”
Local councillor and Education Chair, John Finlayson said: “Developing place- based projects like this will not only be income generating but will also support management of the whole site to ensure it has a sustainable future. These further improvements deliver against the strategic aspirations and objectives set out in the place-based investment framework for the area known as Skye & Raasay Future (SARF), adopted by the Skye & Raasay Area Committee on 30 August 2021. Similarly, the ongoing development of the Storr is an excellent example in supporting the key Council’s aims in the Future Highlands – Health and Prosperity Strategic Partnership Plan approved by The Highland Council on 9 September 2021”.
This ambitious strategy includes the intention to take a pro-active collaborative approach to capitalising on the unique opportunities and natural assets available in the Highlands relating to green energy, tourism, workforce, innovation, science and skills.
Members have approved investment from Ward funds towards the delivery of onsite management and income generation at the Old Man of Storr site including the introduction of digital applications that will provide visitors with a one-stop digital destination that offers clear, autonomous guidance in advance of their visit and provides a platform to host a range of virtual benefits, including a digital ‘shop window’ for local craftspeople.
Members also agreed that a report is to be presented to a future Corporate Resources Committee at Highland Council seeking approval of the required set-up funding to help take forward the delivery of a retail module at the Storr.