IT could finally be the end of the road in solving a bitter parking row at one of Scotland’s most iconic – but congested – tourist attractions.
Every year thousands of visitors park their vehicles and set off to walk the mile and a half route to see the stunning Fairy Pools at Glenbrittle on Skye – a situation described as “a nightmare” by residents and rescuers. The world-famous tourist destination is a series of waterfalls and pools, popular with wild swimmers and sightseers.
But the present car park has just 30 spaces and, as a result, many vehicles are left at the roadside, which causes congestion and access difficulties for local residents, delivery vans and emergency services. Police have also been called to the car park to sort out parking rows.
But now Highland Council’s place committee has approved a £100,000 grant towards efforts to improve facilities near the Fairy Pools.
Highland Council hopes its funding to a local community group will attract support from other organisations – and comes at a time when the island has made national headlines over claims that it is being overrun by tourists.
The funding from the council’s town and countryside regeneration budget could be used to improve car parking, roads and toilet facilities near the pools. It has previously been estimated that it could cost £500,000 to enlarge the car park to 100 spaces plus toilets. Minginish Community Council in June submitted plans to Highland Council to extend the car park, which will provide an additional 157 spaces.
It is also wants to improve the road crossing, create places for picnics and interpretation boards and provide compost toilets. The car park would have a new lower access link and would be able to accommodate 137 cars as well as 20 minibuses and camper vans.
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