Backlash to announcement Cairngorm funicular will not run this winter
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There has been a backlash from Strathy readers on social media to confirmation that the Cairngorm funicular will not run again this winter.
The £20m mountain railway was shut on safety grounds in September 2018 and was due to return to operation for the 2021/22 season.
However, owners Highlands and Islands Enterprise confirmed yesterday that the funicular will not be ready in time and has now set a target date of Autumn 2022
Alan Bain said: "Nearly four years to the day since the Ciste and West Wall chairs were felled....has anything improved? Action groups and community interventions have all failed to improve the disaster on the hill.
"I am sure it will all be glossed over with another tubing ride or something else."
Bob Beattie posted: "Are they deliberately trying to destroy the Cairngorms as a ski resort and holiday destination? A shambles from start to fictional delivery date."
Oliver Crane remarked: "Oh, here we go. Target creep. Once that starts it becomes the acceptable norm. Bye, bye funicular."
Andrew Farmer posted: "A shock would be it ever re-opening. Better off building a big tent up there so it can be a proper circus
Marty Wares commented: "Total disaster and waste of money from start to finish."
And Ross Dakers posted: "I'm shocked that anyone would actually be shocked by this news."
The mountain resort will stay open throughout winter, with skiers and snowboarders able to access the slopes using nine ski tows that will run every day when weather conditions are suitable.
According to HIE, several factors have combined to lengthen the funicular reinstatement programme.
These include technical challenges associated with designing and implementing effective solutions to an existing structure, as opposed to a new build.
In addition, HIE said progress has been hampered by Covid impacts and by extreme weather, particularly blizzard conditions in the spring.
Extra effort has also been required to source vital construction materials that are currently in short supply across the UK.
Shock after announcement Cairmgorm funciular will not run this winter
