New Falls of Shin visitor centre could rise from ashes
A NEW Falls of Shin visitor centre could be open for business next year following an offer from former Harrods boss Mohamed Al-Fayed.
The Kyle of Sutherland Development Trust is being given the chance to develop proposals for a new tourist attraction at the Falls of Shin which was destroyed by fire in 2013.
Mr Al-Fayed’s company, Balnagown Estates which managed the previous attraction, has offered the trust financial support for a development.
The trust has now commenced detailed analysis of costs, funding and timescale and it is hoped that a high quality facility will be open for business during 2015.
Balnagown Estate manager Paul Pomfret said: "We are committed to working with the community to re-establish a visitor attraction that local families can enjoy and which tourists will want to visit.
"The working group we established to consider the future of the site has been impressed with the commitment and enthusiasm of the Kyle of Sutherland Development Trust, and with the high quality of work undertaken on assessing local need, viability and their initial vision for the site."
Helen Houston of the trust said: "We look forward to expanding the opportunities for visitors to experience the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the Kyle of Sutherland area.
"Our plans for the Falls of Shin will ensure that it remains an exceptional destination known for its quality, aesthetics, and which will support the continued development of tourism in the area. Plans and drawings will be presented to the public in due course."
The Falls of Shin Working Group comprises representatives from interested parties and local community groups.
