Highlands MSP renews calls for public inquiry into Cairngorm funicular
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A Highlands MSP has renewed calls for a public inquiry into the Cairngorm funicular after being told by resort bosses there is no timescale for its reopening.
Bosses at Cairngorm Mountain Railway have admitted to Scottish Conservative politician Edward Mountain that they have no idea when the crucial facility will reopen.
Despite repairs being carried out at a cost of £25 million, the funicular railway has been closed throughout the winter.
Earlier this year Highlands and Islands Enterprise admitted it could be ‘months rather than weeks’.
Mr Mountain said he was told by the CEO of Cairngorm Mountain Susan Smith there is still no date for it reopening despite the attraction being out of action since August, last year.
He said: “I find it absolutely incredible that, after millions of pounds in repairs, the railway still isn’t open.
“This is why we need a public inquiry into this farce, and why Scottish ministers have to explain what is going on.
“I appreciate that Susan Smith took the time to meet me but the fact that she has been given no date by HIE when the funicular is going to reopen is totally unacceptable.
“She couldn’t tell me a timescale, and that means the people of Badenoch and Strathspey don’t get one either.
“They have been let down, and so too have the Scottish taxpayers, who have stumped up at least £18 million for these repairs.
“In what other world would something like this have such costly repairs, then be closed for the most important four months of the year?
“This is a microcosm of the ferries crisis.
“So much potential spending from tourists and skiers has been squandered because of this – the whole thing is a complete disgrace.”
An HIE spokesman said: “We share the disappointment and frustration felt by many local people and all visitors to Cairngorm while the funicular remains out of service.
“Although there is no reopening date at present, we are working closely with Balfour Beatty who are progressing these works and will provide a clearer update as soon as possible.”
