TEN Scottish tourism projects will be boosted by a total of £3 million.
Visitors’ facilities, access and low-carbon transport options will benefit from round five of the Rural Tourism Infrastructure Fund (RTIF).
The fund, managed by VisitScotland on behalf of the Scottish Government is aimed at improving the visitor experience in rural areas.
Tourism Minister Ivan McKee said: “Scotland’s breathtaking natural scenery and rich historical sites attract many visitors and help the local economy.
“However, this can also put pressure on communities, services, transport and facilities – particularly in rural areas.
“The Rural Tourism Infrastructure Fund (RTIF) is dedicated to helping deal with increasing demand, driving sustainable tourism and increasing visitor experience in rural Scotland.
“The fifth round of funding will provide the infrastructure required for locals and visitors to enjoy Scotland’s attractions in a sustainable way and will help provide greater access to iconic sites, enhance passenger flow, decrease crowding and also help to reduce car parking requirements.”
The biggest beneficiary of this latest cash will be Achmelvich Beach, receiving £500,000, while the Isle of Staffa in Argyll & Bute will get £477,270 towards projects including an upgraded boat landing jetty.
A further £350,000 will go towards the Glencoe Greenway – an active travel route following the A82 from Glencoe to the national nature reserve.
The Urgha Aire project outside Tarbert has been awarded £85,553 to develop six overnight motorhome bays with electric hook-ups and a grey water disposal point to help deal with the increase in campervans and motorhomes on the island.
Elsewhere, Stac Pollaidh nets a £440,859 funding boost; Glen Lochy and Glen Orchy visitor facilities will be given £332,334; north-west Highland public toilet provision has been awarded £232,218; Lochwinnoch Boardwalk is recommended £182,420; Edinburgh’s Bonaly Country Park is to get £207,886 and scenic viewpoints of the Trossachs will be given £231,000.
