Highland Wildlife Park scoops £1m for new visitor facilities
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The Highland Wildlife Park has been awarded nearly £1m for new visitor facilities.
It is one of four projects in the Highlands and Islands sharing in £2.6 million of European Regional Development Fund awards to promote the outstanding scenery, wildlife and culture of the region.
The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland will receive £980,000 for its planned Wildlife Discovery Centre.
It is expected that 32 new jobs will be created at the new centre.
The purpose-built building will feature an exhibition and education space alongside a café, function room and shop.
Cabinet Secretary for Rural Economy and Tourism, Fergus Ewing, announced this funding – awarded through the Natural Cultural and Heritage Fund, led by NatureScot – this morning.
NatureScot has also approved funding of £306,844 for Archaeology Scotland to start their project for a heritage and tourism network in the Ardnamurchan peninsula; £748,954 for improved visitor infrastructure at sites on the Isle of Skye including the Old Man of Storr and the Quiraing; and £541,718 for a circular historic route around Hermaness National Nature Reserve on Unst.
Mr Ewing said: “Our commitment to supporting our outstanding nature and vibrant culture in the Highlands and Islands is reflected in this latest £2.6 million European Regional Development Fund investment, which follows the £5 million funding awarded less than 18 months ago.
“We are dedicated to enhancing employment in our rural communities and developing further the experience for locals and visitors, who cherish these areas of spectacular natural interest and beauty.
“The range of projects underlines the diverse attractions we know will continue to drive job opportunities and increase visitor numbers.”
The fund invests in projects in the Highlands and Islands which improve the experience of visitors exploring the region’s nature and culture, and support jobs in remote and rural areas.
The funding for these four new projects are in addition to £5m for nine projects announced in December 2019.
Francesca Osowska, NatureScot Chief Executive, commented: "Nature and culture are intrinsically linked in the beautiful Highlands and Islands.
"They are central to local economies and help maintain rural populations, jobs and skills, especially at a time when a green recovery from the pandemic is so important.
"These four fantastic projects will make a real difference to rural communities for years to come, and give visitors even more to enjoy in these iconic areas of Scotland.”
Funding for the Natural and Cultural Heritage Fund comes from the Scottish Government’s ERDF programme, with match funding from other sources including charitable trusts, public and voluntary sector contributions, bringing overall investment into the 13 projects, to nearly £25 million.
