Community group unveils plans for CairnGorm Mountain
Five chairlifts, two Snowfactory units, renovation of the Day Lodge and mountain bikes trails are among the ambitious plans laid out by a community group bidding to take control of CairnGorm Mountain.
The Aviemore and Glenmore Community Trust said it has been overwhelmed by the support it has received for its proposals for the resort.
Around 250 people turned out at their six-hour open day at the Cairngorm Hotel in Aviemore on Tuesday during which AGCT revealed a host of costed plans covering the short to long term.
Proposals for the redevelopment of the Coire na Ciste ski area include in the short term:
Installing a hydro scheme and Snowfactory.
Refencing the Laogh Mor return.
Replacing the Ciste Gully boardwork.
More exciting plans for the medium term in the Ciste comprise:
The phased reinstatement of chairlifts.
An environmental education centre.
A learning zone with magic carpets.
A Neverplast artificial ski slope and sledge park.
Beyond that the trust envisages a new Ciste base lodge, camping area by the Ciste car park Lochan, campervan hook-ups and mountain bike trails.
AGCT interim treasurer Mike Dearman expects that a formal request by AGCT to Highlands and Islands Enterprise for the transfer of the assets of the Cairngorm Estate will be made by May, next year.
He said: "The asset transfer request to HIE is going to happen and I think we have a very strong business case but it will come down to the support of politicians at the end of the day but I am more confident now than ever before after hearing the support."
What are you thoughts on the community buy-out bid? Let us know in comments or email us at editorial@sbherald.co.uk .
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