Skye Storr project accelerates at pace

Plans to improve the site of Skye's Old Man of Storr with the aim of it  becoming a key Scottish visitor attraction Scotland are going well.

 

Having considered a progress report at its meeting last week, Isle of Skye and Raasay Area Committee commended the achievements of the Storr Project so far and agreed an amendment to parking charges from April 2023.

 

A £60,000 investment from ward funds towards the delivery of on-site management and income generation at the Storr was also welcomed.

 

Members unanimously agreed the new parking payment scale which it is estimated will  increase annual revenue by between £50,000 and £90,000.

 

Isle of Skye and Raasay Area Committee chairman councillor John Finlayson said: 'Today’s report marks significant progress. It demonstrates community led-innovation whilst being considerate of the environment, unique heritage and our Gaelic culture whilst supporting the local circular economy.

 

'Members are delighted to see the project accelerate and look forward to further updates. Developing place-based projects like the Storr opens opportunities for income generation and, importantly, will support the overall management of the Storr 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 and Raasay Future (SARF). Similarly, the development of the Storr is an excellent example of supporting the key Council’s aims in the Future Highlands – Health and Prosperity Strategic Partnership Plan.'

 

Building on improvements made to parking, paths, toilets and motorhome services, 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.

 

Members noted the following:

 

•Achievements and progress made as detailed in the report

 

•Established governance via a project board

 

•Continual local member involvement

 

•Creation and appointment of two full-time equivalent posts at the Storr for improved visitor experience and improved site management.

 

•Installation of welfare facilities for on-site staff

 

•Ongoing development of the site's logo, website and social media with prominent Gaelic

 

•Successful funding application of £440,000 to the Islands Infrastructure Fund for the installation of a retail unit and electric vehicle chargers on site.

 

The new charges for Storr parking from April 2023 are: up to six hours £5; up to 12 hours £7. There are no changes to the £10 monthly charge for the local parking season ticket for Skye car parks.

 

Photograph: The Storr is an internationally recognised site, with visitor numbers increasing year on year. Photograph: Highland Council. NO_F45_SkyeStorrProject