Achmelvich Beach to receive new parking and accessible toilet facilities
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New parking and accessible toilet facilities due to start installation this month for popular Assynt beauty spot, Achmelvich Beach.
The new high-quality parking and toilet facility are being installed with hopes to alleviate pressures on the Sutherland Beach.
There will be an extension to the existing carpark, increasing the capacity to accommodate another 71 car parking spaces, and a new toilet block with disabled access, baby changing facilities and an outdoor shower to replace the current outdated unit.
Councillor Ken Gowans said: “Achmelvich is a popular stopping point on the North Coast 500 and part of a National Scenic Area. It’s important that popular tourist destinations such as this offer suitable facilities for visitors whilst protecting and managing the surrounding landscape. This new facility has been carefully designed to meet the needs of the public whilst being sensitive to the environment that surrounds it.”
The project was funded by a £300,000 capital investment from the Highland Council, leading to a £500,000 grant from the Rural Tourism Infrastructure Fund, and £245,000 from the Highland Coastal Communities fund.
The works beginning in January are expected to be completed in time for the summer.
Chris Taylor, of VisitScotland said: “A healthy visitor economy is crucial for the Highlands as a successful visitor destination – it generates jobs and income in rural communities which rely on tourism and ensures we remain a must-visit region.
“Communities are at the heart of tourism, and I am pleased that this project will provide community benefit and create a more positive experience for both locals and visitors. It will mean significant and long-lasting improvement to visitor infrastructure in the region.”
