Appendix 1 Argyll Bute Islands Sustainable Tourism Infrastructure Development Report
Argyll and Bute Council · 20 March 2025
Back to Environment, Development and Infrastructure Committee — 20 March 2025 and its agenda
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APPENDIX 1 May
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Ironside Farrar / 111 McDonald Road / Edinburgh / EH7 4NW Document Reference: 64078 Authors: JMP / DJS VERSION 1.0 (FINAL) Date: 03/06/2024
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Contents Introduction ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 5 Aims ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 6 Objectives .......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 6 Strategic Context ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 7 Challenges & Pressures ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 7 Opportunities .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 8 Argyll & Bute Islands’ Special Qualities of Place .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 9 Outlook 2030 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 11 Site Strategies ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 13 Project 1: Hynish, Tiree .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 16 Site strategy ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 16 Concept proposal ......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 17 Project evaluation ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 22 Project 2: Bute Forest, Isle of Bute .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 23 Site strategy ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 23 Concept proposal ......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 25 Project evaluation ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 29 Project 3: Ellenabeich (Easdale), Isle of Seil ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 30 Site strategy ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 30 Concept proposal ......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 32 Project evaluation ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 36 Project 4: ‘The Gateways to the Isles’ .............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 37 Site strategy ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 37 Concept proposal ......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 40
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Project evaluation ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 40 Project 5: Access on Staffa and the Treshnish Isles .......................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 42 Site strategy ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 42 Concept proposal ......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 43 Project evaluation ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 45 Project 6: Bendoran, Mull ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 46 Site strategy ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 46 Project evaluation ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 52 Project 7: Tiroran Forest, Mull ......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 53 Site strategy ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 53 Concept proposal ......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 56 Project evaluation ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 60 Project 8: Aros Park, Mull ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 61 Site strategy ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 61 Concept proposal ......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 64 Project evaluation ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 67 Project 9: Achamore Gardens, Isle of Gigha .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 68 Site strategy ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 68 Concept proposal ......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 70 Project evaluation ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 73 Project 10: Loch Gruinart, Islay ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 75 Site strategy ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 75 Concept proposal ......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 78 Project evaluation ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 81 Summary of projects & orders of cost ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 82 Conclusions, Next Steps and Recommendations ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 85
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 5 Introduction The Argyll islands, renowned for their natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor activities, are facing the challenges and opportunities of a thriving tourism economy. With Tiree, Mull, Staffa & the Treshnish, Islay, Bute, Gigha, Seil and other islands witnessing an increasing influx of visitors, it has become imperative to strategically plan and invest in tourism infrastructure and sustainable development. This report outlines the strategic needs and opportunities for ten key tourism projects across these islands, aimed at enhancing visitor experiences, supporting local communities, and preserving the unique heritage of each location. Significance of Tourism Tourism plays a pivotal role in the economies of these islands, acting as a major source of employment and income for local communities. The tourism sector not only supports hotels, restaurants, and tour operators but also sustains a range of other businesses, from local artisans and farmers to transportation providers and retail establishments. With many islanders dependent on tourism-related jobs and services, the vitality of the tourism industry is intrinsically linked to the well-being and prosperity of the communities living on these islands. Challenges of Success The very success that has made the Inner Hebrides islands popular tourist destinations also brings its own set of challenges. The increasing number of visitors, particularly during the peak season from April to September, puts a strain on the islands' infrastructure, natural resources, and community services. Issues such as traffic congestion, overcrowding at popular sites, littering, and environmental degradation have become pressing concerns that need to be addressed urgently. Strategic Need for Planning and Investment To ensure that tourism remains a sustainable and beneficial force for the islands, strategic planning and investment are essential. It is crucial to strike a balance between promoting tourism and protecting the islands' fragile ecosystems, cultural heritage, and quality of life for residents. Infrastructure upgrades, community engagement, sustainable tourism practices, and heritage conservation are all integral components of a comprehensive tourism development strategy. This report considers infrastructure developed in this context. Opportunities Ahead By diversifying the tourism offer, ensuring that facilities and infrastructure is available year-round, promoting off-peak visits, and focusing on sustainable and responsible tourism practices, the islands can ensure long-term growth and prosperity for the tourism industry while preserving the essence and integrity of what makes them special. Project Selection The selection of the ten projects requiring infrastructure investment to support and enhance sustainable tourism was firstly focussed on sites in Argyll’s islands, then guided by a comprehensive and collaborative process. Argyll and Bute Council initiated a stakeholder engagement exercise, inviting input from local communities, agencies, businesses, tourism operators, and charities to identify pressing needs and opportunities across the region. This inclusive approach ensured that diverse perspectives and priorities were considered, ensuring a sense of shared ownership and commitment to the projects. The Council then issued a call for Expressions of Interest (EoI), encouraging detailed submissions from potential project leads. EoI were structured to allow evaluation based on criteria such as feasibility, potential impact on sustainable tourism, alignment with regional strategic priorities, and readiness for implementation. Through this methodical process, the Council identified ten high-potential projects that collectively address critical challenges and capitalise on unique opportunities, thereby supporting the long-term sustainability and resilience of Argyll and Bute's tourism sector. A Live Document This Sustainable Tourism Infrastructure Development Plan is intended to be a live document which can be reviewed and updated to reflect the findings of
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 6 ongoing project developments, engagement and respond to the results of other studies and plans as they emerge. Aims The primary aim of this report is to provide a strategic overview and rationale for ten key tourism projects across the Argyll islands. This report aims to outline the strategic needs, challenges, opportunities, and benefits associated with each project, with a focus on enhancing visitor experiences, supporting local communities, and preserving the islands' unique heritage and natural assets. Objectives Strategic Analysis & context - To analyse the current tourism landscape in the Argyll islands and the ten key sites identified through stakeholder consultation undertaken by Argyll & Bute Council officers, including the challenges and opportunities presented by the growing tourism industry. - To identify the strategic needs and gaps in tourism infrastructure, capacity, facilities and sustainable development across the islands. Challenges & Pressures - To outline the specific challenges and pressures faced by the Argyll islands, with a focus on infrastructure limitations - To discuss the implications of these challenges for the sustainability of the tourism industry Opportunities & Strategic Gaps - To identify opportunities for tourism development and enhancement across the islands, leveraging their unique natural and cultural assets. - To highlight strategic gaps in the current tourism offerings, such as the need for day experiences suited to inclement weather, improved infrastructure, and sustainable tourism measures. Community Engagement & Stewardship - To emphasise the importance of community engagement in tourism development and decision-making processes. - To showcase examples of community-led initiatives and stewardship, such as the Hebridean Trust's stewardship of Hynish, and their role in preserving heritage and supporting local economies. Sustainable Development - To advocate for sustainable tourism practices that prioritise environmental conservation, cultural preservation, and responsible visitor behaviour. - To encourage the adoption of sustainable development principles in tourism infrastructure, planning, and management across the Argyll islands. Project Overviews - To provide a detailed overview of each of the ten key tourism projects, including their location, project type, and project leads. - To highlight the significance and potential impact of each project on the addressing strategic gaps and pressure points on their island, community, and tourism sector. Recommendations - To provide recommendations for each of the ten tourism projects, outlining specific actions, priorities, and timelines for implementation.
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 7 - To propose a holistic approach to tourism development that integrates infrastructure upgrades, community engagement, sustainable practices, and heritage conservation. - To maintain the strategy as a live document which can be reviewed and updated to reflect the findings of ongoing project developments and respond to new potential projects as they emerge Strategic Context The strategy has considered the geographic area of the 23 inhabited islands, and their neighbouring uninhabited islands, in Argyll. The Argyll islands, including Tiree, Mull, Staffa & the Treshnish Isles, Islay, Bute, Seil, Gigha and others, offer a diverse range of attractions that draw visitors from around the world. From the white sandy beaches of Tiree to the historic sites of Mull and the lush forests of Bute, each island has its unique charm and offerings. Tiree, famed for its world-class water sports facilities and sandy beaches has a rich cultural heritage, tourism is a major contributor to the local economy. Mull, known for its stunning landscapes and wildlife, is a haven for nature enthusiasts, the famous colourful harbour town of Tobermory is a hotspot, as are the historic sites of the Iona Abbey on Iona. Iona, as well as ancient religious site, is a gateway to the Treshnish Isles and Staffa (as is Mull, Tiree and Oban); Iona, Treshnish and Staffa are a sanctuary for rare bird species and unique landscape. Bute, with its tranquil forests and scenic beauty, attracts visitors seeking relaxation and outdoor activities. Islay is world renowned for its whisky distilleries and cultural heritage; with over 250 species of birds being recorded on the island, and the popularity of the recent BBC ‘Wild Isles’ documentary featuring Loch Gruinart’s White-tailed Eagle and Barnacle Goose encounters, the reserve has a reputation as one of Scotland’s prime wildlife watching sites. Seil, shaped by its history, famous for its bridge over the Atlantic connection and the historic slate industry is increasingly known for its world class access to the Argyll coast and notable international festival of stone skimming. Gigha is one of the most beautiful of the Hebridean Islands, has been transformed following a community buy-out in 2002 with the gardens at its heart offering a unique environment and visitor experience. However, the increasing popularity of these islands as tourist destinations has put pressure on infrastructure, accommodation, and the environment. There is a pressing need to manage visitor numbers effectively, upgrade tourism facilities, and address the challenges faced by local communities. - Tourism infrastructure projects face significant, and often unique and specific challenges and pressures. - In seeking to address strategic gaps and respond to these challenges, these projects present opportunities relating to their special qualities of place; the unique environments; the important role of community on islands and the context of journey to net zero. - The Argyll and Bute islands are special places. The islands whilst varied and unique are linked though their special qualities of place. Themes relating to these special qualities provide a framework for evaluating and connecting the sustainable tourism infrastructure projects located on geographically distance and environmentally disparate islands. Challenges & Pressures Infrastructure and Accessibility One of the primary challenges faced by the Argyll islands is the lack of adequate infrastructure to support the growing number of visitors. Issues such as
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 8 inadequate roads, limited parking facilities, and poor signage can hamper the visitor experience and affect the local community. Investment in infrastructure can directly address these issues. Transportation and Connectivity Improving transportation options and connectivity to and within tourist destinations, especially in remote or island locations, to enhance visitor access and mobility while minimising environmental impact. Seasonality Addressing the economic dependency on seasonal tourism and developing strategies to diversify the offer to ensure year-round sustainability. Cultural Heritage Preservation Protecting and promoting cultural heritage sites and traditions while managing visitor access and impact to ensure their long-term sustainability Environmental Conservation Balancing the need for tourism development with the preservation of fragile ecosystems and biodiversity. Resource Management Managing natural resources such as water, energy, and waste to minimize environmental impact and promote sustainable practices. Sustainable Development Ensuring sustainable development while preserving the natural beauty and heritage of the islands is crucial. Climate change, environmental conservation, and responsible tourism practices need to be integrated into tourism development plans to ensure long-term sustainability. Accommodation and Housing With increasing visitor numbers and seasonal workers, there is a significant demand for community housing and accommodation. The lack of affordable housing options and seasonal worker accommodation can strain local resources and impact the quality of life for residents. Investment in infrastructure can address specific pressures, is support of projects with wider ambitions. Scotland Outlook 2030 specifically emphasises an approach that priorities tourism infrastructure acting in common interest with communities, businesses, and visitors. Opportunities While the Argyll and Inner Hebrides islands have a flourishing tourism economy, there are strategic gaps that need to be addressed. These include limited parking in hotspot locations, single lane roads ill-suited to large volumes of cars or increasing numbers of motorhomes, limited public access to the water, limited EV infrastructure, limited public toilet provision, gaps in offers of day experiences suited to inclement weather, limited community housing and
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 9 seasonal worker accommodation, and the need for sustainable tourism measures. Opportunity areas to address these challenges and strategic gaps include: Unique Heritage and Cultural Offerings Each island, with its unique history, heritage, and cultural offerings, presents opportunities for tourism development. Sites, for example, like Bute Forest in Bute, and Ellenabeich in Seil offer unique experiences that can be developed to enhance the overall tourism offer. Community Engagement and Stewardship Engaging local communities in tourism development and fostering stewardship of the islands' natural and cultural assets are key to sustainable tourism. Community-led initiatives, like the Hebridean Trust's stewardship of Hynish, can play a vital role in preserving heritage and supporting the local economy. Argyll: Scotland’s Adventure Coast Strategic programmes and campaign activities have delivered demonstrated growth to Scottish tourism. The Argyll & Isles strategic Tourism Partnership point to the Wild about Argyll initiative which seeks to capitalise on the region’s 37,000km of coastline and 23 inhabited islands, with direct access transport links to the central belt. The initiative recognises the opportunities for tourism from the growth in cycling, walking, wild swimming, and other water activities. Sites like and Ellenabeich in Seil and Bute Forest offer locations which can be hubs for active travel and sustainable tourism. World class destinations These islands are world-class destinations. Staffa for example is both famous for its basalt columns and great caves and its seabirds. Hynish offers a visitor experience centred on an internationally important cultural heritage. The islands’ unique blend of natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and authentic rural charm are distinctive assets, leveraging which the sites can offer visitors immersive and transformative experiences that are both memorable and meaningful. By investing in sustainable infrastructure, enhancing accessibility, and fostering community engagement, these projects can create a visitor experience that is unparalleled, reflecting the islands' individual character while contributing to their collective identity. Journey to net zero Journeying to net zero presents a significant opportunity for these projects across the rural islands. Improving and promoting low-carbon transportation options, such as electric vehicle charging stations, cycling infrastructure, and eco-friendly public transport links, can help reduce emissions from transportation both on and between the islands. Encouraging visitors and residents to use these sustainable transportation options can contribute to a reduction in carbon emissions. Partnerships and Collaboration Forming partnerships with local businesses, government agencies, and other stakeholders can facilitate collaboration and knowledge sharing that can amplify the impact, reach, and sustainability of these projects. A collaborative approach can allow access to a wealth of expertise, resources, and support that can accelerate sustainable infrastructure development and its success. Argyll & Bute Islands’ Special Qualities of Place Shared Heritage and Cultural Significance A common thread weaving through the fabric of these ten projects is the rich heritage and cultural significance that each island holds. Whether it's the historic township of Hynish on Tiree, the ancient ruins on Mull, or the tranquil forests of Bute, each project aims to preserve, celebrate, and share the unique heritage and traditions of its respective island. By investing in heritage conservation, interpretation, and promotion, these projects contribute to the islands' collective identity and offer visitors an enriching cultural experience.
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 10 Natural Beauty and Environmental Stewardship The breathtaking landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and pristine coastlines of these islands are another common thread that ties these projects together. From the white sandy beaches of Tiree to the rugged cliffs of the Treshnish Isles and the bird-rich wetlands of Islay, each project recognises the importance of environmental stewardship and sustainable tourism practices. By enhancing access to these natural wonders, improving visitor facilities, and promoting responsible tourism, these projects aim to strike a balance between conservation and enjoyment, ensuring that the islands' natural beauty is preserved for future generations to enjoy. Community-Led Development and Engagement Community engagement and empowerment are at the heart of these projects, reflecting a shared commitment to local ownership, participation, and decision-making. Whether it's the Hebridean Trust's stewardship of Hynish, the Bute Community Land Company's leadership on Bute, or the Seil and Easdale Community Council's initiative on Seil, these projects showcase the power of community-led development in driving tourism, preserving heritage, and supporting sustainable growth. By fostering a sense of ownership and pride among residents, these projects not only enhance the visitor experience but also strengthen the social fabric and resilience of these rural communities. Sustainable Tourism and Economic Resilience In the face of growing tourism pressures and global challenges such as climate change and economic uncertainty, sustainability and resilience emerge as common themes across these projects. Whether it's through infrastructure upgrades, sustainable tourism measures, or diversification strategies, these projects aim to build a resilient and adaptable tourism economy that can withstand shocks, support local livelihoods, and contribute to long-term prosperity. By investing in sustainable practices and innovative solutions, these projects pave the way for a more inclusive, equitable, and environmentally responsible tourism sector across the rural islands of the Inner Hebrides. Access, Isolation, and Rural Setting A defining characteristic of the island projects is the unique context of their rural and isolated settings. The challenge and opportunity of access—both physical and digital—play a pivotal role in shaping the tourism experience and economic landscape of these remote communities. The islands' isolation, while presenting challenges in terms of infrastructure and connectivity, also offers a distinct allure, attracting visitors seeking escape, tranquillity, and connection with nature. Each project acknowledges the importance of improving access—whether it's through enhancing links, upgrading visitor facilities, or investing in digital connectivity—while preserving the islands' rural character and sense of remoteness. By striking a balance between accessibility and authenticity, these projects aim to unlock the islands' potential as sustainable and inclusive tourism destinations, while respecting and celebrating their unique rural identity and heritage. Variety and Uniqueness One of the most captivating aspects of islands and the ten projects is the variety and uniqueness that each contributes. Each island boasts its own distinct character, from the windswept landscapes of Tiree and the ancient history of Mull to the serene forests of Bute and the secluded charm of Gigha. This diversity not only enriches the overall tourism offer but also ensures that visitors can experience a wide range of landscapes, activities, and cultural experiences across the islands. The uniqueness of each project, whether it's the heritage conservation at Hynish, the marine infrastructure at Ellenabeich, or the sustainable tourism measures at 'The Gateways to the Isles', adds depth and dimension to the islands' collective tourism narrative. By investing in, celebrating, and preserving this variety and uniqueness, these projects contribute to a more vibrant, inclusive, and memorable visitor experience that highlights the rich diversity and individuality of each island within the wider context of the Argyll coast and Isles.
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 11 Outlook 2030 Sustainable tourism is a priority at the core of Scotland Outlook 2030. Scotland Outlook 2030 is a strategy for responsive and sustainable tourism developed in partnership between the Scotland Tourism Alliance, Scottish Government, VisitScotland, Scottish Enterprise, Highlands and Islands Enterprise and Skills Development Scotland. It is aimed at guiding the sustainable growth and development of Scotland's tourism industry over the next decade. It emphasizes a holistic approach that balances economic benefits with environmental stewardship, community engagement, technological advancement, and the enhancement of visitor experiences. By focusing on sustainability, inclusivity, innovation, and resilience, the strategy seeks to position Scotland as a leading global destination that offers exceptional, memorable, and responsible tourism experiences. Outlook 2030 responds to change in the global landscape of the tourism industry, recognising the role EU exit, challenges in the global economy, changes to tourism and consumer behaviours, UK migration policy, the way people travel, impacts of technology and the climate emergency have as factors which influence the long-term growth, development and success for Scotland’s tourism industry. The framework describes tourism as a ‘positive force’ and sets out a 21st century tourism model which seeks to outline the opportunities that sustainability, responsibility, innovation, and technology will play in providing visitors with the experience they are looking for while attracting investment, encouraging collaboration, supporting communities and encouraging visitor access across Scotland. The key priorities of this strategy are themed: - Our passionate people Commitments to ensure Scotland can offer the workforce required to support the tourism industry; enable the adoption of Fair Work practices; encourage career development and champion diversity across the sector. - Our thriving places - Commitments to ensure places across Scotland can manage tourism effectively; local communities are valued as stakeholders; and to integrate more sectors of the economy with tourism. - Our memorable experiences - Commitments to nurture Scotland’s tourism assets to deliver memorable experiences; to encourage and enable visitors to explore more of Scotland throughout the year; and to develop destination to be barrier free, inclusive, and accessible. - Our diverse businesses Commitments to support tourism business to be entrepreneurial, agile, and resilient; and establish measures to help tourism business to commit to sustainable practices.
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 12
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 13 Site Strategies The aim of this report is to provide a strategic overview, rationale, and evaluation for ten key tourism projects across the Argyll islands. This report aims to outline the strategic needs, challenges, opportunities, and benefits associated with each project, with a focus on enhancing visitor experiences, supporting local communities, and preserving the islands' unique heritage and natural assets. Islands and project sites Tiree Area:7.8 km² Population: c. 650 Largest settlement: Scarinish Project 1: Hynish Bute Area:122 km² Population: c.7230 Largest settlement: Rothesay Project 2: Bute Forest, nr Rhubodach Seil Area:13 km² Population: c. 560 Largest settlement: Balvicar Island Group: Slate Islands Project 3: Ellenabeich Mull Area:875 km² Population: c. 2990 Largest settlement: Tobermory Project 4: Aros Park, nr Tobermory Project 5: Bendoran, West Mull, nr Fionnphort Project 6: Tiroran Forest, West Mull Project 7: Fionnphort and Ulva Ferry, Iona and the Gateways to Staffa & the Treshnish Isles Staffa Area:3 km² Population: 0 Project 8: Staffa staircase Lunga Area:13 km² Population: 0 Island Group: Treshnish Isles Project 8: Lunga paths Gigha Area:14 km² Population: c. 110 Largest settlement: Ardminish Project 9: Achamore Gardens Islay Area:620 km² Population: c. 3230 Largest settlement: Port Ellen Project 10: Loch Gruinart
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 16 Project 1: Hynish, Tiree Site Location: Hynish, Tiree Project Type: Site organisation / car park expansion / directional and arrival signage Project: Site organisation, car park expansion, directional and arrival signage Project Goal: Develop Hynish site as destination of national significance, offering unique visitor experience with capacity to accommodate increasing visitor numbers, support local businesses and address the need for increased variety of visitor experience on Tiree Project Lead: The Hebridean Trust Site strategy Hynish is a small crofting township lying on the most southerly point on the west of the Inner Hebridean island of Tiree. Hynish is a unique historic township which has the potential to support the Tiree tourism economy and visitor offer whilst addressing impacts and pressures experienced on the island. The village consists of a group of buildings, a harbour, walled gardens, and a reservoir, built under the direction of the engineer Alan Stevenson, mainly between 1837-40, for the construction, operation, and maintenance of Skerryvore Lighthouse. The buildings are assigned a Category A listing by Historic Environment Scotland. Tourism has a major function in the Tiree economy and is one of the main sources of employment for the around 650 islanders. The Hebridean Trust has brought ownership of the Hynish site to the Tiree community. Their stewardship seeks to secure a future for Hynish based on creating tourism destination rooted in a world class heritage management and long term, sustainable management of the site and support to the community. Pressures Tiree is a small Inner Hebridean island with a range of challenges common to many Scottish island communities. The unique destination is a collection of 19 historic buildings associated with the construction of Skerryvore; comprising a mix of residential, workshop, stores, museum, public assembly and heritage buildings. Strategic gaps Tiree has a flourishing and successful tourism economy. However, visitor numbers, place pressure on infrastructure, seasonal accommodation and the local community and residents. The tourism offer on Tiree is largely built around outdoor experience: walking, water sports, access to nature and sea tours. There is a gap in the offer for day experiences which are suited to inclement weather. Opportunity The Hynish site offers a unique opportunity. The township can be developed to protect a heritage site of national significance and enhance the visitor experience with benefits to the tourism offer which are not in competition, but support and enhance the tourism offer on the island. The Hynish site can address a significant strategic gap to the tourism offer on the island whilst addressing the main pressure points on both tourism and community. The project is wide ranging and ambitious. It is centred on the creation of a worldclass visitor destination, on place-based heritage preservation, interpretation, and collaboration with community in terms of accommodation, enterprise, and recreation opportunities. This innovation is underpinned by a modest and practical infrastructure project which enables the wider ambition; car park expansion, accessibility improvements, signage, and the permeant opening-up of public toilet facilities.
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 17 These maps are reproduced from Open Street Map data licensed under the Open Data Commons Open Database License Concept proposal Project objective Develop the infrastructure needed to enable the Hynish site to succeed as a destination of national significance, offering unique visitor experience with capacity to accommodate increasing visitor numbers, support local businesses and address the need for increased variety of visitor experience on Tiree. Tiree
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 18 Project description The Hebridean Trust stewardship seeks to secure a future for Hynish based on creating a tourism destination rooted in a world class heritage management and long term, sustainable management of the site with support for both visitors and the community. The unique destination is a collection of 19 historic buildings associated with the construction of Skeryvore; comprising a mix of residential, workshop, stores, museum-public assembly, heritage buildings. The vision for Hynish is centre on place-making and the development of the township is built around a strong and sustainable community. The mix of buildings will offer a mix of affordable homes, workspaces and visitor facilities that collectively create a destination celebrating and supporting the long-term conservation of the island’s cultural heritage. The non-paid visitor experience at Hynish is a combination of museum type exhibition and heritage trail telling the story of the building of Skerryvore Lighthouse. Visitors will typically enjoy the attractive beach and to walk around the site and in the surrounding area. There is a popular walk at the back of Hynish to happy Valley. Key elements - Improved road access including surfacing improvements, one-way system. - Car park expansion at the Alan Stevenson House including cattle grid - Car park expansion at the Lower Hynish Square - Public realm improvements - Wayfinding, arrival, and interpretation signage - Hynish Interpretation trail and signage - Signal tower conservation - Exhibition relocation to the Old Stables - Opening of community hall (where exhibition re-sited) and public toilets made publicly accessible - Waste and recycling point Permission required • Neighbouring crofter • Planning permission including Listed Building Consent Land ownership • Site in community ownership • Lower Hynish Square with potential for car park expansion is crofted Potential Funding • Trust donation or Tiree Windfall Fund • HIE • RTIF Revenue • Events, tours& packages Outline cost Outline cost estimates have been provided by the project lead. Element Cost Funding option Access road improvements One way system and surface renewal £20,000 RTIF eligible Car Parking expansion Alan Stevenson house £20,000 RTIF eligible Car Parking expansion Lower Square £20,000 RTIF eligible Signage Arrival and wayfinding £15,000 RTIF eligible Hynish Tour, Signal Tower and Trail Signal Tower Hynish guided walking tour Telescope to view Skerryvore £25,000 Treshnish Hall and public Renovation Public toilet and £30,000 RTIF eligible
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 19 toilets facilities Bin Shelters & Recycling £2,500 RTIF eligible Point Fees £10,000 Total Cost £142,500
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 20 This map is reproduced from Ordinance Survey material with the permission of Ordinance Survey on behalf of the Controller of His Majesty’s Stationary Office Crown Copyright 2024.
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 21 AL100017966
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 22 Project evaluation Impact Prioritisation Summary Sustainability/ Priority Level Mission Zero Issues/ Outlook 2030 barriers Strategy Timescale The Hebridean Delivery Trust Agents Supportive of opportunities for partnership & collaboration High impact - Enables Hynish historic township project - Potential model for a 21st sustainable tourism community owned asset model aligned to Outlook 2030 vision Provides necessary car parking to tourist destination receiving visitors number exceeding capacity - Makes available toilet facilities - Increase capacity of island to accommodate visitors - Provides diversity of visitor attraction on Tiree Highly sustainable - Acts as model for community asset groups seeking to diversify and generate sustainable tourism - The Hebridean Trust will seek to develop car park to provide EV charging infrastructure to support sustainable tourism Coordination with crofter interests Suitable for immediate start ‘Shovel ready’ Impact Sustainability Deliverability 4 4 5 Priority Score 13 High priority - High impact - Highly sustainable - Limited complexity - Delivery agents in place - No barrier through dependencies Key priorities met are: - Our passionate people: Wider project seeks to address accommodation shortfall & support local workforce. - Our thriving places: project places local community at core of managing tourism effectively. - Our memorable experiences: Potential for destination experience of national significance, which can expand the offer in off peak season - Our diverse businesses: Wider project seeks to support local business and
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 23 integrate workshop spaces etc with destination experience. Dependencies None Other notes Project 2: Bute Forest, Isle of Bute Site Location: Bute Forest, North of the Isle of Bute, near Rhubodach Project Type: Car Park and Visitor Arrival with toilet facilities and bus stop Project Goal: Improve access to a community wood which has become an important destination and educational asset, enhancing recreational opportunities, and addressing the current lack of facilities and parking. Project Lead: The Bute Community Land Company Ltd. Site strategy The Bute Community Land Company Ltd (BCLC) have brought into community ownership, and manages, 160 hectares of mixed woodland on the Isle of Bute. The woodlands comprise native and commercial forestry, some Atlantic Rainforest and SSSI (including ancient woodland). The forest is on the north end of Bute, near to the Colintraive-Rhubodach ferry terminal. The A886 road to Rhubodach runs alongside the forest and terminates at the ferry terminal. The West Island Way, Port Bannatyne path runs parallel to the road and along the west edge of the community forest. The forest consists of 4 woods: Moss Wood , Bullocheg Wood and Tawnich Wood which are contiguous and the separate Balnakailly Wood. Moss wood has a small access point with spaces for car parking for 2 vehicles. Balnakailly Wood is accessible from the Rhubodach ferry roadside car park. The woodland is publicly accessible and BCLC aims to increase access to their woodland assets, through recreation and environmental education activities. A community shelter and recreation area in Moss Wood, named the Rhudan Community shelter has been created to support this. The area is popular for outdoor recreation by visitors and tourists and a variety of local natural-interest, health and wellbeing groups are visitors as well as most of the local schools and nurseries who visit on a regular programme. Bute Forest has potential to grow as a ‘responsible tourism’ visitor destination as well as an expanded community resource, BCLC have developed 2 off-grid huts in Moss Wood which provide accommodation at the destination.
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 24 Pressures Moss Wood and the Rhudan Community shelter is the main community event and education space in the forest. Not served by any formal parking, and with an off-road surfaced area with capacity for only 2 vehicles, parking is a particular pressure point which can lead to excessive on-road parking on event days. Strategic gaps There are limited tourism facilities at the north end of the island on the approach road to the Rhubodach ferry. The ferry connection sees over 175,000 passenger crossings; whilst Bute Forest is a visitor destination, this significant footfall is not served with tourism infrastructure in the local area. The Bute Forest destination is challenged by gaps in the access strategy. Connections between the parts of the forest are limited fragmenting the visitors experience of the forest. The limited availability of car parking is a challenge for access. Generally, the limited stopping spaces and parking opportunities on this section of the road are an issue, preventing both access and opportunity to enjoy the scenery and views. The Moss Wood site has become established as an important community space: in an 18-month period 90+ forest school sessions over 5 different schools are facilitated, 15 community events hosted, and c. 40 other group meetings held in the woodland. Visitor experience and utility for events is constrained by a lack of on-site car and cycle parking, limited bus facilities and a complete lack of visitor facilities including toilets and shelter for events in inclement weather. Opportunity The proposed project is to develop a Bute Forest hub, an arrival point in the forest with facilities, car park, bus and cycle improvements and a central access point for a network of paths and trails through the wood and connecting to the island wide path network. The hub is a functional arrival point addressing the need for facilities at the north end of the island and is envisaged as a leading new eco- destination and responsible tourism attraction on the Isle of Bute.
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 25 These maps are reproduced from Open Street Map data licensed under the Open Data Commons Open Database License Concept proposal Project objective Improve access to a community wood which has become an important destination and educational asset, enhancing recreational opportunities, and addressing the current lack of facilities and parking. Project description Arrival point in the forest with facilities, car park, bus and cycle improvements: A central access point for a network of Isle of Bute
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 26 paths and trails which connect to the island wide path network, explore Bute Forest and link to the different Bute Forest destination sites. Key elements • New 15 space car park with cycle parking • Bus stop • Arrival point/ shelter with orientation/ interpretation information etc. • Facilities buildings including toilets, showers • Accessible walking routes connecting arrival point to Moss Wood and Charcoal huts destinations • Wildlife viewing shelters • Skills development Timescales • Targeting construction beginning in summer 2024 o Car parking and bus stop summer 2024 o Arrival point / toilet / shower 2024 o Trails & signage spring 2025 Permission required • Planning permission • SEPA • Scottish Water Land ownership • Site in community ownership Potential Funding • RTIF • HIE • Coop & Bute Island Foods Fund Revenue • Events charges • Motorhome servicing / overnighting charges • Coffee pop-up or similar Outline cost Outline cost estimates have been provided by the project lead. Element Cost Funding option Car park Car park £75,000 Bus stop Cycle parking Arrival point £40,000 RTIF Facilities building £30,000 RTIF Walking routes £20,000 RTIF Sustrans Viewing shelter £10,000 Skills development £7,000 Total Cost £183,000
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 27 This map is reproduced from Ordinance Survey material with the permission of Ordinance Survey on behalf of the Controller of His Majesty’s Stationary Office Crown Copyright 2024.
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 28 AL100017966 Bute Forest from Rhubadach Ferry
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 29 Project evaluation Impact Sustainability/ Mission Zero Issues/ barriers Timescale Delivery Agents Dependencies None High impact - Provides parking to tourist destination with no formal parking provision - Provides facilities to area with no toilets and high number of visitors - Increase capacity for north of Bute to accommodate visitors - Potential model for community owned woodland sustainability Highly sustainable - Supports biodiversity, education and nature conservation mission of Bute Forest - Acts as model for community asset groups seeking to diversify and generate sustainable tourism - Pathways enable offroad active travel access to Bute Forest (including cycle, walking and kayaking) No issues anticipated Suitable for immediate start ‘Shovel ready’ The Bute Community Land Company Ltd Supportive of opportunities for partnership & collaboration Prioritisation Summary Priority Level Outlook 2030 Strategy Other notes Impact Sustainability Deliverability 4 4 5 Priority Score 13 High priority - High impact - Highly sustainable - Limited or no significant complexity - Delivery agents in place - No barrier through dependencies - ‘Shovel ready’ Key priorities met are: - Our thriving places: project places local community asset at core of managing tourism effectively. - Our memorable experiences: Addresses significant barriers to access to an important north of Bute destination - Our diverse businesses: Wider project seeks to support local business with opportunities for coffee van etc and
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 30 synergies with nearby off-grid accommodation Project 3: Ellenabeich (Easdale), Isle of Seil Site Location: Ellenabeich (Easdale), Isle of Seil Project: Marine infrastructure: Slipway and launch/drop area to support visitor access to the coast and local ferry operations Project Goal: Provide rare public access to the water, fostering marine tourism and economic opportunities for Seil Project Lead: Seil and Easdale Community Council Site strategy Ellenabeich is a small village on the isle of Seil, on the east side of the Firth of Lorn, southwest of Oban. Seil is one of the Slate Islands and Ellenabeich is a former slatemining village, the village layout and architecture is characterised by this history with its long rows of former miner’s homes, prominent disused quarries (filled with sea water), slate walls, harbour and Village square featuring a historic crane. The slate island and village heritage are celebrated in the Ellenabeich Heritage Centre run by the Scottish Slate Islands Heritage Trust. The village is sometimes called ‘Easdale’ because of its proximity to the island of that name. A small ferry runs from Ellenabeich to Easdale. Ellenabeich is well served with car parking, including village centre parking, allocated motorhome overnight stopover spaces, and a large public car park. The village amenities include a community hall, a bar /restaurant and a hotel. The village has public toilets. The Ellenabeich harbour has a narrow slip for the mall ferry and protects a stone beach suitable for boats and small craft launches. This access point to the water, with easy and free access, supported by the village facilities, is a popular boat launching location. Pressures The popular Ellenabeich launch, and landing area is a pressure point with vehicle traffic associated with boat launches causing congestion and launches hampered by the lack of a publicly accessible slipway. The boat launch location is popular despite challenges. A narrow slip serves the ferry, it is not suitable for aces by the public. Boats can be launched from the beach; however, this area is a stone beach which hampers launches and requires year round maintenance to keep clear and useable. Launches are slow and at peak time the lack of adequate launch infrastructure crates pressures.
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 31 Strategic gaps Good, publicly accessible, and low cost or free boat launch locations are limited in the Argyll and Bute area. The Ellenabeich launch is a hotspot for yacht owners, kayakers and the increasing number of people choosing to enjoy the waters around Argyll for the day, or a multi-day expedition. The success of the Argyll Sea Kayak Trail, the promotion of the region as Scotland's Adventure Coast and internationally celebrated events like the Easdale World Stone coastline access points. Skimming Championships, place an importance on the strategic function of good Opportunity The proposed project is to create a purpose built, publicly accessible and permanent slipway at Ellenabeich; one which is compatible with and can support (on peak days such as during the Skimming festival), the ferry service and pleasure trips. The slipway will support Elennabeich’s role as an access (and arrival) point on the Argyll adventure coast. The village is well served by other facilities such as toilets, food and beverage, accommodation, and car parking, so with investment in the marine infrastructure can address current pressure points, prospering as a leading tourism destination and supporting the Argyll and Bute tourism strategy.
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 32 These maps are reproduced from Open Street Map data licensed under the Open Data Commons Open Database License Concept proposal Project objective Provide rare public access to the water, fostering marine tourism and economic opportunities for Seil, resolving conflicts with recreational use of the ferry slip and long term maintenance issues associate with the use of the beach as a natural slipway. Project description New publicly accessible slipway and pontoon Key elements • Slipway • Pontoon Timescales • Seeking construction in Q4 2025 • 6 month programme Seil
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 33 • Project is at inception stage, initial design work etc required Permission required • Planning permission • Crown Estate Lease • Marine Scotland Land ownership • Crown Estate Potential Barriers • Cost, delay, inflationary pressures Potential Funding • Highland and Island Enterprise (HIE) Outline cost Outline cost estimates have been provided by the project lead. Element Cost Funding option Concrete slipway £250,000 RTIF eligible Pontoon £25,000 Surveys, planning etc £5,000 Total Cost £280,000
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 35 This map is reproduced from Ordinance Survey material with the permission of Ordinance Survey on behalf of the Controller of His Majesty’s Stationary Office Crown Copyright 2024. AL100017966 Ellenabeich. looking to Easdale and in foreground the site for a permanent recreational slipway
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 36 Project evaluation Impact Sustainability/ Mission Zero Issues/ barriers Timescale Delivery Agents Dependencies Approvals Design development High impact - Slipway facilitating water access for kayaks, yachts etc in popular location well served by land-based infrastructure (e.g. car parking, motor home facilities, public toilets. - Location popular as landing spot but without necessary infrastructure, cause of conflict with ferry service and congestion caused through landing on beach Moderately sustainable - Supports active travel access, kayaking to key stopping location - Mitigates conflicts where ferry slipway is used for public access - High synergy with existing tourism infrastructure facilities No significant issues anticipated - Approvals and permission relating to marine conservation and marine infrastructure development increase complexity Design not developed, approvals not in place The Bute Community Land Company Ltd Supportive of opportunities for partnership & collaboration Prioritisation Summary Priority Level Outlook 2030 Strategy Other notes Impact Sustainability Deliverability 4 3 4 Priority Score 11 Medium priority - High impact; Moderate sustainable; Limited complexity - Design development required - Further stakeholder engagement required e.g. Marine Scotland - Potential funding challenges to address Key priorities met are: - Our thriving places: community led at core - Our memorable experiences: Project seeks to address barriers to access to the water, enables year round access to the water, supporting lengthening of season in Seil
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 37 Seil and Easdale Community Council would benefit from support to develop a project with potentially high impact for marine tourism and significant benefit to Seil to ‘shovel ready’ status. Project 4: ‘The Gateways to the Isles’ Primary Site Location: Baile Mòr, Iona; Secondary Locations: Fionnphort, Mull; Ulva Ferry, Mull Project Type: Signage, Sustainable Tourism Measure: Interpretation and information signage at key getaways for access to Staff and the Treshnish Isles Project Goal: Delivery interpretation and information to facilitates the National Trust’s objective to ensure the Staffa and Treshnish islands can safely and sustainably accommodate visitors Project Lead: National Trust for Scotland Site strategy The Treshnish Isles are a group of eight uninhabited islands and many more skerries, located in the Inner Hebrides to the west of Mull. The largest island is Lunga; the others are Bac Beag, Cairn na Burg Beag, Bac Mor, Sgeir an Eirionnaich, Sgeir an Fheoir, Fladda and Cairn na Burgh Mor. The entire archipelago is a Site of Special Scientific Interest, and the islands are known for their distinctive silhouette in the seascape – especially Bac Mor (or the Dutchman’s Cap).and for their nationally significant nesting seabird populations, marine mammals, rich cultural history and archaeology. Staffa lies about 10 kilometres west of Mull and 9km northeast of Iona. The islands distinctive geology is an attraction. Of volcanic origin it has layers of tuff, colonnades of a black basal and caves amongst the distinctive predominantly hexagonal columns. Staffa is nationally important for breeding birds, and the surrounding waters support seabirds, grey seals, dolphins, basking sharks, minke, and pilot whales. The island has been designated as a national nature reserve, a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), and the seas surrounding the island are designated as a Special Area of Conservation (SAC). The Treshnish Isles and Staffa are in the care of the National Trust for Scotland. The islands are accessible by boat trips from Tiree, Tobermory, Oban, Ulva Ferry and Fionnphort on Mull, and Iona. The islands welcome around 100,000 visitors a year. The busiest times are in the Summer which coincides with the Seabird breeding season. The islands are sensitive environments. The National Trust for Scotland seek to support access to the islands, whilst protecting the unique environments and habitats Pressures The National Trust’s challenge at Treshish Isles and Staffa is to facilitate access to the islands and continue to work in partnership with tour boat operators whilst providing a world class visitor experience, and promoting responsible access which is sustainable for the islands. Strategic gaps With increasing visitor numbers, there is an imperative to promote responsible tourism behaviour on the islands and to sensitively deliver infrastructure which both supports access and limits the negative impacts of visitor footfall. Visitors access the Treshnish isles and Staffa via tourist boat tours. The National Trust for Scotland, as custodian to the islands are reliant on partnership with boat operators and have limited opportunities to promoting responsible access. Opportunity The proposed project is to create visitor experience centred shelter spaces with information signage at the key departure points in Iona and Ulva Ferry. The spaces will be a facility for visitors, offering a waiting space and shelter, working in partnership with the tour operators to promote sustainable access to the islands. The pressure point – the
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 38 challenge to promote sustainable behaviours for large visitor numbers – is addressed before departure. The National Trust to deliver new visitor interpretation in a ‘Shelter’ to incorporate up to date information about Iona, Staffa and Treshnish, and enable a staff presence in busy periods. Infrastructure focused on departure points allows the islands to retain their important wild characteristic by focusing intervention off site at setting off points.
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 39 Isle of Mull Ulva Ferry Gateway to Staffa and the Treshnish Isles (including Lunga) Boat tours also operate from Tobermory, Tiree and Oban. These locations are secondary gateways to Staffa and the Treshnish Isles Iona Gateway to Staffa and the Treshnish Isles (including Lunga)
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 40 These maps are reproduced from Open Street Map data licensed under the Open Data Commons Open Database License Concept proposal Project objective Delivery interpretation and information to facilitates the National Trust’s objective to ensure the Staffa and Treshnish islands can safely and sustainably accommodate visitors Project description Interpretation and sheltered arrival/ setting of point as ‘Gateway to the Treshnish Isles Key elements • Interpretation • Shelter Timescales • Targeting construction in 2024 - 2026 Permission required • Potential planning permission Land ownership • National Trust Potential Barriers • Cost, delay, inflationary pressures Potential Funding • NTS restricted reserves • Public appeal • Private donors • Grant funding Revenue • Landing charges • NTS membership • Donation Stakheolders / Approach to Partnership & Collaboration Intrinsically linked to cooperation and coordination with tour operators. Outline cost Cost are estimates only. Project evaluation Moderate impact - Facilitates the National Trust’s objective to ensure the Staffa and Treshish islands can safely and sustainably accommodate visitors - Island receive significant visitor numbers which require management. Information and interpretation, located at Geateways, Impact Sustainability Deliverability 2 5 5 Priority Score 12 Element Cost Funding option Interpretation with shelter £100,000 Total Cost £,100,000
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 41 Impact Prioritisation Summary Sustainability/ Priority Level Mission Zero Issues/ Outlook 2030 barriers Strategy provides this with low negative impact on the island habitats and environments. Highly sustainable - Supports biodiversity, education, and nature conservation. - Supports safe and appropriate use of the island pathways, enabling a sustainable, active visitor experience. - Enables long term and sustainable access for c 150,000 visitors. - Supports partnership with boat tour operators. No significant issues anticipated. Medium/high priority - Moderate impact - Highly sustainable - Limited complexity / small scale - Delivery agents in place Key priorities met are: - Our thriving places: project seeks to establish infrastructure to ensure tourism can be managed effectively. - Our memorable experiences: enables safe access to destination experiences of international significance. - Our diverse businesses: Project is built around integration with tour operators, supports local business and seek to develop sustainable practices. Timescale Delivery Agents Dependencies Suitable for immediate start i.e. ‘Shovel ready’ Other notes The National Trust for Scotland Supportive of opportunities for partnership & collaboration, the Gateways function in partnership with tour operators None
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 42 Project 5: Access on Staffa and the Treshnish Isles Site Location: Staffa and Lunga Project Type: Paths: Staffa cliffside staircase; Lunga accessible paths Project goal: Upgrade the existing, and no longer fit for purpose, visitor infrastructure on the Islands of Staffa (the staircase replacement) and Lunga (the paths) to allow continued visitor access, improve the visitor experience, reduce overcrowding, and increase safety. Project Lead: National Trust for Scotland Site strategy Staff and the Treshnish isles are an important visitor attraction in Argyll and Bute and boat tours to the island destinations are an important feature of the tourism offer to visitors to Mull, Oban and Tiree. Visitors can access the islands via privately run tourist boat trips. The islands are accessible by boat trips from Tiree, Tobermory, Oban, Ulva Ferry and Fionnphort on Mull, and Iona. Project 4, Gateway to the Isles, describes sustainable tourism measures which seek to educate visitors and promote sustainable tourism to the islands from these setting out location. Infrastructural intervention on the islands is intentionally limited, and restricted to the essential access infrastructure to facilitate access for visitors which is safe, provides a high-quality visitor experience, and supports the protection of the sensitive environments. Staffa Staffa is one of the most visited destinations in Argyll and Bute; the world- famous wildlife, geology and dramatic scenery attract around 100,000 visitors every year. Access to the island is via boat. A new boat landing jetty is being built to reduce overcrowding and improve landing access; this was supported by Rural Tourism Infrastructure Funding. Exploration of the island is facilitated by paths on the island, a visitor welcome point and the steep cliffside staircase. Lunga Lunga is likewise, accessed by boat trip, and can be explored by the island’s paths. One of the most attractive things about the Treshnish isles is there is no obvious visitor access infrastructure on the islands. NTS would retain that important wild characteristic by focusing interpretation off site at setting off points and ensuring any alterations to the path on Lunga are modest and sensitive. Pressures The existing access infrastructure on Staffa needs urgent and significant improvement. The staircase infrastructure was installed in the 1980s and is no longer able to cope with the volume of visitors it now receives, with pinch points being the boat landing jetty, staircase from landing to the top of the island and visitor volume and flow around the island. The path infrastructure on Lunga is similarly in need of repair to ensure visitor safety, erosion control and continued accessibility on the island. Strategic gaps Staffa and Lunga are amongst the primary destination and visitor experience in Argyll and Bute. The opportunity to land on the islands and explore is an important element of their appeal. Continued facilitation of this requires information points at ‘gateway’ locations. Safe access is a key strategic requirement for the sustainability of this experience. Aging and no longer fit for purpose access infrastructure on the island represents a threat to the strategic role played by the islands as part of Argyll’s adventure coast. Opportunity Investment in the Staffa Staircase to renew, widen and make safe and accessible; and new, light -touch, sensitively delivered paths on Lunga protect the accessibility of
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 43 Staffa and Treshnish. Concept proposal Project objective Upgrade the existing, and no longer fit for purpose, visitor infrastructure on the Islands of Staffa (the staircase replacement) and Lunga (the paths) to allow continued visitor access, improve the visitor experience, reduce overcrowding and increase safety. Project description Provision of safe and fit for purpose, accessible paths from the island arrival points (i.e. jetty landings) to the visitor destinations, i.e. up the Staff cliffs and across the Lunga landscape. Key elements • New 15m staircase • Replacement of steps and ladders • Removal of old staircase • 500M Lunga paths Timescales • Targeting construction in 2024/2025 Permission required • Planning permission • Crown Estate Lease (secured) • Marine Scotland (secured) Land ownership • National Trust Potential Barriers • Cost, delay, inflationary pressures • Remote island challenges: weather, access • Working around bird breeding seasons Potential Funding • NTS restricted reserves • Public appeal • Private donors • Grant funding Revenue • Landing charges • NTS membership • Donation Outline cost A cost plan provided for Staffa staircase replacement has been provided by the project lead. An outline cost estimates are provided for Lunga paths, these require confirmation. Element Cost Funding option Cliffside staircase 15m of staircase from landing jetty to top of the island £1,753,000 Replacement of steps and ladders Removal of old staircase Lunga paths £100,000 Total Cost £1,853,000
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 45 Project evaluation Impact Prioritisation Summary Sustainability/ Priority Level Mission Zero Issues/ Outlook 2030 barriers Strategy Timescale Delivery The National Trust for Scotland Agents High impact - Facilitates the National Trust’s objective to ensure the Staffa and Treshish islands can safely and sustainably accommodate visitors - Island receive significant visitor numbers, the infrastructure renewal is required to safely accommodate visitors and sustain the islands’ capacity to accommodate visitors - Appropriate paths protect the island habitats and environments. Highly sustainable - Supports biodiversity, education, and nature conservation. - Supports safe and appropriate use of the island pathways, enabling a sustainable, active visitor experience. - Enables long term and sustainable access for c 150,000 visitors. - Supports partnership with boat tour operators. Complex environment for engineering projects: remote, weather disruptive. Need to work around nesting birdlife Detailed design has been undertaken. Suitable for immediate start i.e. ‘Shovel ready’ Impact Sustainability Deliverability 5 5 1 Priority Score 11 Medium priority - High impact - Destination with high appeal, an international draw for visitors, supporting tourism regionally - Highly sustainable - The environment presents major challenge and makes the projects highly complex Key priorities met are: - Our memorable experiences: Project seeks to address barriers to access and safety. Access to Staffa and Lunga is of significant visitor appeal drawing international visitors. - Our diverse businesses: Island access indirectly supports tourism and business regionally though its international draw. Directly access to the islands supports, through collaboration, tour operators.
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 46 Dependencies None Other notes Lunga project does not incur same order of cost or complexity and therefore can be seen as more easily delivered. Project 6: Bendoran, Mull Site Location: Bendoran Boatyard, Ross of Mull Project Type: Car park & toilet, shower and facilities Project goal: Provide needed facilities in tourism hotspot; support Bendoran boatyard as destination with access to the water, providing additional l West of Mull capacity. Project Lead: South West Mull and Iona Development (SWMID) Site strategy Mull is a popular island tourist destination offering a diverse visitor experience. Mull has a rich history with standing stones, castles, and particularly the abbey on Iona, a tourism hotspot. South West Mull and Iona Development report increasing visitor numbers and identify significant volumes of visitors driving through West Mull to the Fionnphort destination, with the aim of making a day visit to Iona. Bendoran is a community owned boatyard on the Ross of Mull, 7km from Fionnphort. The boatyard and slipway are positioned in a sheltered bay with water access to the saltwater Loch na Làthaich. The slipway is an important element of the West Mull marine tourism infrastructure offering free and publicly accessible access to water and a point for landing and launching craft. Additionally, the site is served by an area of car parking directly of the A849 Fionnphort road and facilities including showers, toilets, and laundry. The site is the base for Bendoran Watersports, a social enterprise, providing a facility for visitors to enjoy Mull through sea kayaking and sailing, while seeking to increase employment prospects and income for local people. Pressures Fionnphort is a hotspot, the A849 a single lane road with passing places experiences traffic and congestion associated with the significant volumes of visitors travelling the Iona ferry there. Fionnphort is well served with parking, however there are limited car parking, stopping points or facilities on the way to the destination. Short stay EV charging is not well provided for, with the typical parking stay at Fionnphort being medium to day trip length. Strategic gaps Bendoran Boatyard is important in providing public access to the water supported by Bendoran Watersports and the infrastructure including the car parking, facilities, pier and slip. With limited destinations in West Mull with capacity to alleviate pressure, support dispersal, and provide additional facilities and experiences near the Fionnphort hotspot there is a requirement for - Additional facilities on the approach to the major hotspot - EV charging locations - Place to stop while travelling - Facilities, including toilets, showers, and laundry (which support all visitors) Opportunity The proposed project is to develop the Bendoran Boatyard location to
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 47 address strategic gap in distribution of facilities and breadth of visitor experiences in West Mull, encouraging visitor dispersal and providing needed facilities on the approach to Fionnphort - Promote Bendoran through road signage, place identity signage and orientation etc. - Increase capacity in the area for parking with facilities to alleviate traffic issues - Upgrade car park to offer EV charge - Create a destination with full offer of visitor facilities: toilets, laundry facilities, showers
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 48 These maps are reproduced from Open Street Map data licensed under the Open Data Commons Open Database License Concept proposal Isle of Mull
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 49 Project objective Provide needed facilities in the west of Mull tourism hotspot; support Bendoran boatyard as destination with access to the water, providing additional West of Mull capacity. Project description Expansion/development of the car park area and facilities to support visitor arrival by motorhome and provide EV charging Toilet, shower, and laundry facilities. Signage to promote and provide orientation and arrival information. Key elements • Car park development • EV provision (4nr 22kW charge points) • E-bike charging point • Toilet, shower and laundry facility • Orientation and arrival point and signage Timescales • Seeking construction in Q4 2025 • 6 month programme • Project is at inception stage, initial design work etc required Permission required • Planning permission Land ownership • Community ownership Potential Barriers • Cost, delay, inflationary pressures Potential Funding • Highland and Island Enterprise (HIE) • Nature Scot • Energy Saving Trust Revenue • Parking charges / EV charges • Laundry facilities • Shower charges • Donation Outline cost Outline cost estimates have been provided by the project lead. Element Cost Funding option Car park development £20,000 RTIF eligible EV £20,000 RTIF eligible E-bike £10,000 RTIF eligible Facilities building £275,000 RTIF eligible Signage £10,000 RTIF eligible Total Cost £335,000
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 51 This map is reproduced from Ordinance Survey material with the permission of Ordinance Survey on behalf of the Controller of His Majesty’s Stationary Office Crown Copyright 2024. AL100017966 Bendoran
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 52 Project evaluation Impact Prioritisation Summary Sustainability/ Priority Level Mission Zero Issues/ Outlook 2030 barriers Strategy Timescale Delivery South West Mull and Iona Development (SWMID) Agents Moderate impact - Provides needed facilities in the west of Mull tourism hotspot. - Support Bendoran boatyard as a destination with access to the water, providing additional West of Mull visitor capacity. Highly sustainable - Provides EV charging for west Mull - Supports electric cycle charging, i.e. supports car free tourism No significant barriers Requires design and proposal development Impact Sustainability Deliverability 3 4 5 Priority Score 12 Medium/high priority - Moderate impact - Highly sustainable - Not complex - Delivery agents engaged in project development Key priorities met are: - Our thriving places: project places local community at core of managing tourism effectively. - Our memorable experiences: Project seeks to address barriers to access to EV charging, parking and motorhome overnighting, making west of Mull destination more inclusive and accessible. Dependencies None Other notes Project has parallel with similar SWMID project, project 7, Tiroran, see below; and seeks to
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 53 achieve similar objectives and address some shared pressures. Project 7: Tiroran Forest, Mull Site Location: Tiroran Forest, Mull Project Type: Car park, motorhome overnighting & toilet facilities Project goal: Provide needed facilities in tourism hotspot; develop community wood as a destination with capacity for motorhome overnighting and destination appeal, providing additional West of Mull visitor capacity Project Lead: South West Mull and Iona Development (SWMID) Site strategy Mull is a popular island tourist destination offering a diverse visitor experience. •The most popular destinations are Tobermory, and having driven through West Mull -o Fionnphort, then island hopping visits to Iona, or Staffa. Tiroran Forest is a community owned forest in West Mull on the Ardmeanach peninsula. The forest is mostly publicly accessible with some areas of Sitka spruce operated as a commercial crop. The forest is a tourist destination and destination for locals offering walking trails, promoting an eagle viewing trail and offering access to the archaeological site of the Knockroy historic township. The site benefits from an area of car parking accessible from the B8035, and existing walking trails. Pressures The access points to Iona and Staff, at Fionnphort and Ulva ferry are hotspots which generate traffic whilst drawing significant visitor numbers. - There is pressure for parking, particularly short-term parking where visitors are looking for layby type stops for wildlife /scenery viewing. - pressure on roads, blocked laybys, passing places, congestion. - limited EV support, particularly where EV at Fionnphort encourages short term charges and visits to Iona are typically longer - Pressure around accommodating motorhomes including overnighting. Strategic gaps The visitor destinations at Tiroran, i.e. the wildlife viewing points and the interpretation at Knockroy village are not well connected with off-road paths. There are limited destinations in West Mull to alleviate pressures and support visitor dispersal or provide additional facilities and experiences that offer - Facilities concentrated at hotspots - EV charging - Place to stop - Facilities - Motor home overnighting Opportunity The Tiroran Forest project seeks to develop the community woodland, to enhance the existing offer of access to nature, woodland walks, archaeological interest and opportunities for eagle viewing. Additional
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 54 facilities would seek to develop the destination to address strategic gaps in the distribution of facilities and breadth of visitor experiences in West Mull. This world focus on providing: - motorhome overnighting - facilities e.g. toilets - waste disposal - EV parking and charging - New path trail from car parking to destinations A short new trail has the opportunity of providing an off-road walking connection between the car park location with the visitor destinations.
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 55 These maps are reproduced from Open Street Map data licensed under the Open Data Commons Open Database License Isle of Mull
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 56 Concept proposal Project objective Provide needed facilities in tourism hotspot; develop community wood as destination with capacity for motorhome overnighting and destination appeal, providing additional West of Mull visitor capacity Project description Expansion/development of the car park area and facilities to support visitor arrival by motorhome and provide EV charging Toilet facilities Walking trail connecting car park to visitor destinations Signage to promote and provide orientation and arrival information Interpretation point at viewpoints Key elements • Car park development • Cattle grid to replace der gates and make car park accessible • EV provision (4nr 22kW charge points) • E-bike charging point • Toilet facilities • Walking trail (700m) including bridge • Interpretation at Knockroy Village and eagle viewing point including signage and viewing telescope • Wayfinding signage Timescales • Seeking construction in Q4 2025 • 6 month programme • Project is at inception stage, initial design work etc required Permission required • Planning permission Land ownership • Community ownership Potential Barriers • Cost, delay, inflationary pressures Potential Funding • Highland and Island Enterprise (HIE) • Nature Scot • Energy Saving Trust Revenue • Parking charges / EV charges • Laundry facilities • Shower charges • Donation Stakheolders / Approach to Partnership & Collaboration Outline cost Outline cost estimates have been provided by the project lead. Element Cost Funding option Car park development £20,000 RTIF eligible Cattle grid £30,000 EV £20,000 RTIF eligible E-bike £10,000 RTIF eligible Toilet facilities £150,000 RTIF eligible Walking trail £150,000 Interpretation £40,000 Wayfinding Signage £5,000 RTIF eligible Total Cost £335,000
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 57 This map is reproduced from Ordinance Survey material with the permission of Ordinance Survey on behalf of the Controller of His Majesty’s Stationary Office Crown Copyright 2024. AL100017966
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 58
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 59 Arrival at Tiroran Forest
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 60 Project evaluation Impact Sustainability/ Mission Zero Issues/ barriers Timescale Delivery Agents Dependencies None Moderate impact - Provides increased accessibility to Tiroran Forest increasing capacity of west of mull to accommodate visitors - Provides needed facilities in the west of Mull tourism hotspot - Caters for increasing numbers of visitors seeking motorhome facilities Highly sustainable - Provides EV charging for west Mull - Supports electric cycle charging, i.e. supports car free tourism - Supports biodiversity, education and nature conservation - Pathways enable offroad active travel access to Tiroran Forest No significant barriers Requires design and proposal development South West Mull and Iona Development (SWMID) Prioritisation Summary Priority Level Outlook 2030 Strategy Other notes Impact Sustainability Deliverability 3 4 5 Priority Score 12 Medium/high priority - Moderate impact - Highly sustainable - Not complex - Delivery agents engaged in project development Key priorities met are: - Our thriving places: project places local community at core of managing tourism effectively. - Our memorable experiences: Project seeks to address barriers to access to EV charging, parking and motorhome overnighting, making west of Mull destination more inclusive and accessible.
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 61 Project has parallel with similar SWMID project, project 6, Bendoran, see above; and seeks to achieve similar objectives and address some shared pressures. Project 8: Aros Park, Mull Site Location: Aros Park, nr Tobermory, Mull Project Type: Car park expansion to accommodate motorhomes; path connection to facilities and destinations Project Goal: Accommodate motorhomes at busy location, supporting dispersal from Tobermory hotspot; and achieving synergies with the nearby harbour project to support active travel and connect toilet facilities to the main Aros Park arrival points. Project Lead: Forestry & Land Scotland (FLS) Site strategy Aros Park, 1.5km from Tobermory is a park and recreational woodland on the site and ground of the now demolished Aros House. The grounds comprise woodland walks, routes around Lochan a’ Ghurrabain reservoir, a picnic area, an adventure play trail and viewpoints to Tobermory, Tobermory Bay and the Aros burn waterfalls. The park ais accessible by road and is served by a car park; a more direct connection to Tobermory is by a scenic, waterside footpath. The Tobermory Harbour Association are undertaking renovation works to a harbour and associated slipway and buildings. This harbour is within the Aros Park grounds and the arrival point on the Tobermory Coastal route access. The works will provide additional facilities to Aros Park and strengthen the active travel arrival options, including the potential arrival by boat or kayak or similar. Aros Park therefore is a site with excellent connections to Tobermory, offering capacity for visitors, including car free exploration of Mull. • Site with walks, viewpoints, waterfall, views of Tobermory • Capacity for parking • Accessible by active travel, walking, cycling, by boat – from Tobermory -or visa versa i.e. offers access to Tobermory and the water • Potential for synergy with harbour project Pressures Aros Park experiences pressures relating to increases in visitor numbers to Mull and proximity to the Tobermory hotspot, and changes in visitor behaviour: • Pressure on car parking with visitor numbers around Tobermory • Car park not equipped to manage increases in campervan use. and increases to numbers – requires expansion • Connection by active travel lacks formalised routes. The Harbour project is addressing this. • Whilst toilet facilities are required, the Harbour Association are creating new toilets in the park. Strategic gaps Tobermory is a hotspot experiencing large visitor numbers. Visitors are seeking access to sites which support changing transport needs; including both increased use of motor homes, increasing use of EV vehicles and increase in car free exploration of destination. • Locations with capacity and facilities to support large number of visitors, including those with motorhomes are limited.
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 62 • Locations near the hotspot at Tobermore which are accessible without the use of private car are limited. Opportunity The Aros Park project seeks to mitigate pressures at the hotspots on Mull and at Tobermory by supporting dispersal of visitors • Aros Park is a destination in its own right, the walks etc provide capacity for visitors – suitable for visitors with private can rand close to Tobermore to support access by foot/ active travel • Has capacity and facility to support dispersal of visitors from Tobermory • Has capacity and facilities to support campervan visits (not overnighting) • Requires car park expansion and improved facilities
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 63 Isle of Mull
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 64 Concept proposal Project objective Accommodate motorhomes at busy location, supporting dispersal from Tobermory hotspot; and achieving synergies with the nearby harbour project to support active travel and connect toilet facilities to the main Aros Park arrival points. Project description Invest in expansion of the car park area and facilities to support visitor arrival by motorhome and accommodate increasing visitor numbers. The project will provide path connections to the nearby Harbour project which will link the Aros Park car park arrival point to facilities; path connection to the viewpoint currently not connected to the path network and connect to the shore side route offering a direct walking or cycling connection to, and arrival point from, Tobermory. Shore trail active travel connection Key elements • Car park organisation & expansion • Explore opportunities for EV operation and maintenance through partnership e.g. with A&BC / HIE / SSE • Campervan spaces • Explore opportunities for overnighting and waste disposal – keen not to compete with existing campervan sites • Trail & access to viewpoint • Shore trail – Aros Park to Tobermory connection / Accessibility /Wheeling – Active travel connection to Tobermory / support car free journeys Timescales • Short term • 10 month programme • Project is at inception stage, initial design work etc required Permission required • Planning permission • Local Authority Planning • Scottish Forestry (via statutory Land Management Plan) Land ownership • Forestry & Land Scotland Potential Barriers • SSSI designation • Community concerns re: increasing capacity • Topography is challenging on active travel route • Cost, delay, inflationary pressures Potential Funding • FLS Revenue • Parking charges Outline cost Outline cost estimates have been provided by the project lead. Element Cost Funding option Car park expansion £75,000 RTIF eligible Potential EV £60,000 RTIF eligible Waste disposal £30,000 RTIF eligible Shore trail & viewpoint access Incl. RTIF eligible Total Cost £165,000
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 65 This map is reproduced from Ordinance Survey material with the permission of Ordinance Survey on behalf of the Controller of His Majesty’s Stationary Office Crown Copyright 2024.
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 66 AL100017966 View to Tobermory from Aros Park. New pathways can make this viewpoint accessible and provide a direct walking
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 67 and wheeling connection to Tobermory supporting sustainable tourism and car-free exploration of Mull Project evaluation Impact Sustainability/ Mission Zero Issues/ barriers Timescale Delivery Agents Dependencies None Moderate impact - Provides increased accessibility for Aros Park, increasing capacity of popular destination to accommodate visitors - Achieves synergies with Harbour project which, with strengthened connections can provide facilities linked to the car park arrival point - Moderately sustainable - Developing the shore-side pathways enables an off-road active travel access to Aros Park direct from Tobermory, supporting sustainable transport and enabling dispersal of visitors from Tobermory without reliance on the private car. - FLS are open to exploring potential opportunities or models for the provision of EV charging in order to better support sustainable transport Funding requirements Suitable for immediate start i.e. ‘Shovel ready’ FLS Land Management Plan (project delivery & community engagement) Prioritisation Summary Priority Level Outlook 2030 Strategy Other notes Impact Sustainability Deliverability 3 3 5 Priority Score 11 Medium priority - Moderate impact - Moderately sustainable - Not complex, low cost and Forestry & Land Scotland are positioned to readily undertake project, subject to funding - Funding poses potential barrier Key priorities met are: - Our memorable experiences: Project seeks to lower the impact of visitor pressure to improve facilities for locals and visitors, benefiting the visitors and the places they visit. This project will address barriers to access to parking and motorhome overnighting and supports active travel
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 68 connections supporting sustainable access to Aros Park. Project 9: Achamore Gardens, Isle of Gigha Site Location: Achamore Gardens, Isle of Gigha Project Type: Toilet facilities and arrival point building with visitor information and orientation signage Project Goal: Support Achamore Gardens function as both visitor destination and provide needed facilities to serve tourism on the island at the nexus of paths and routes. Position Gigha and Achamore as a model for sustainable, potentially car-free, island tourism. Project Lead: Isle of Gigha Heritage Trust Site strategy The Isle of Gigha is a seven miles long community-owned island, the most southerly the Hebridean Islands. Gigha is situated three miles west of the Kintyre peninsula, less than three-hour drive from the city of Glasgow, and reached via short frequent ferry crossings. The island offers a rich visitor experience, including spectacular scenery, archaeological and historic sites, a variety of wildlife and birdlife, an extensive walking and cycling path network and the internationally significant Achamore Gardens. The island has accommodation options including bed & breakfast, self-catering accommodation, campsites, and motorhome facilities. Achamore Gardens is a historic garden. In 1944, Colonel Sir James Horlick, as the laird built the garden as a home for rare and exotic plants. The gardens thrive in the sunnier, milder climate of Gigha (thanks in part to the Gulf Stream), protected from the harsh maritime winds by the sheltering woodlands and the natural ridge to the west of the walled garden. Now, under community ownership, and following a period without maintenance, the gardens are being restored. Achamore gardens is a unique environment that attracts visitors from around the world. The gardens are the primary visitor attraction on the island, offering a unique visitor destination and experience which cannot be found on other islands. Strategically, the gardens are central to supporting the islands tourism function, the gardens are a major draw for visitors. Gigha’s size, and the extensive network of paths, coupled with the Gardens proximity to the Ardminish ferry arrival point make visit to Gigha and Achamore readily achieved with the private car parked on the mainland and the island explored at leisure by foot or bike. Gigha can be a model for car free exploration of the Islands and sustainable tourism. Pressures Achamore is the important tourism destination on the island. the community vision of the gardens is that they are a non-paid destination
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 69 which supports the island and offers a world class visitor experience. The garden arrival point is positioned at a crossroad in the island wider footpath network, and at a large car and coach parking area. While the garden has aging toilet facilities, these do not serve the wider island as public toilets. Strategic gaps The Achamore Garden visitor arrival point and associated facilities are inadequate for the strategic role which positions the arrival point as an orientation point, car park location and site for facilities serving the wider island. Limited affordable island accommodation limits Achamore Gardens ability to accommodate seasonal workers, potential volunteer gardeners or house potential students. Opportunity The Achamore garden arrival point project has the potential to offer enhanced facilities on the island, forming a sustainable transport hub which supports Gigha and at and Argyll and Bute level is a model for car free/ responsible tourism / visitor island experience. A site has been identified to locate 2-3 accommodation units which could address the lack of affordable accommodation and therefore support the sustainability of the gardens upkeep.
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 70 These maps are reproduced from Open Street Map data licensed under the Open Data Commons Open Database License Concept proposal Project objective Support Achamore Gardens function as both visitor destination and provide needed facilities to serve tourism on the island at the nexus of paths and routes. Position Gigha and Achamore as a model for sustainable, potentially car-free, island tourism. Isle of Gigha
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 71 Project description Expansion of the car park area and creation of arrival point with toilet facilities. Accommodation units for seasonal workers, volunteers or for accommodation linked to an education programme Key elements • Arrival point and toilet facilities • Car park expansion • Accommodation units Timescales • 2 - 3 year project • Project is at inception stage, initial design work etc required Permission required. • Planning permission • SEPA licence • Utilties Scotsih Water connection • Historic Environment Scotland Land ownership • Community ownership Potential Barriers • Designated landscape Potential Funding • RTIF • HLF • HIE • National Trust for Scotland via Horlicks endowment for Achamore Revenue • Entry fees • Event fees • Donations • Tearoom sales • Plant sales • Potential accommodation income • Potential training course programmes Outline cost Outline cost estimates have been provided by the project lead. Element Cost Funding option Arrival point and toilet facilities £500,000 RTIF Car park expansion £30,000 RTIF Accommodation units £150,000 Not RTIF eligible Total Cost £680,000
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 72
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 73 This map is reproduced from Ordinance Survey material with the permission of Ordinance Survey on behalf of the Controller of His Majesty’s Stationary Office Crown Copyright 2024. AL100017966 Project evaluation
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 74 Impact Sustainability/ Mission Zero Issues/ barriers Timescale Delivery Agents Dependencies Moderate impact - Supports Achamore Gardens function as both visitor destination and provide needed facilities to serve tourism on the island at the nexus of active travel paths and routes. - Position Gigha and Achamore as a model for sustainable, potentially car-free, island tourism. Highly sustainable - Positions Gigha and Achamore as a model for sustainable, potentially car- free, island tourism. No significant barriers Design development required Isle of Gigha Heritage Trust None Prioritisation Summary Priority Level Outlook 2030 Strategy Other notes Impact Sustainability Deliverability 4 5 4 Priority Score 13 Medium priority - Moderate impact - Highly sustainable - Not complex - Requires design / proposal development Key priorities met are: - Our passionate people: Wider project objectives, supported by infrastructure, include measures to support accommodation of a tourism workforce and encourage career development at the gardens. - Our thriving places: project is community led and centred on an integrated approach to tourism. - Our memorable experiences: project will deliver a memorable experience, measures to address barriers to access to the gardens and wider exploration of the islands can
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 75 support visitor exploration and visit throughout the year. Project 10: Loch Gruinart, Islay Site Location: Loch Gruinart, Islay Project Type: Car park & facilities Project Goal: Provide a welcoming visitor arrival location at Loch Gruinart which addresses the limitations of existing toilets and visitor arrival experience and increases capacity for visitor numbers to support sustainable tourism and transport, thereby supporting a destination with year-round appeal and capacity to support tourism in and outside of the peak season Project Lead: Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB Scotland) Site strategy Islay is the southernmost island of the Inner Hebrides. Islay is a popular tourist destination offering scenic beauty, deep history, experiences built on the island’s whisky heritage and a rich variety of wildlife. RSPB Scotland Loch Gruinart on the north of the island receives 15,500 annual visitors. Of this, 25% of visitors are local and 75% are tourists. The reserve is forecasting growth in visitors to the reserve, with 20,000 visitors per annum expected by 2033. RSPB Scotland Loch Gruinart is a place for visitors to get close to nature on Islay and offers inspiring wildlife encounters in the Hebrides. The reserve has a reputation as one of Scotland’s prime wildlife watching sites, attracting a high number of nature enthusiasts and families on holiday on Islay as well as being a vital community asset, with regular school and community visits to the site. The reserve is a significant tourist attraction for the island which the RSPB Scotland predict will benefit from appearing as a documentary feature, with increased visitor numbers. The destination offers the potential to further support visitors through improved facilities and offer an important role in visitor dispersal and variety of experience, providing a visitor experience not related to whisky production. Pressures Parking at the hide car park (location of proposed development site) is currently constrained and does not adequately cater for the increasing numbers of visitors arriving by campervan or those looking to overnight in the north of the island. The reserves visitor destination is primarily the hides and nature trails.
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 76 Toilets and indoor facilities which are located remotely at the reserve’s working farm. They are not readily accessible from the trails or from the main car park location, and the farm location requires farm operation activities to be undertaken near visitors. Strategic gaps RSPB Scotland are keen to encourage sustainable travel modes to the site by installing electric vehicle (EV) charging points and cycle parking, supporting the ‘Journey to net zero’ strategic priority listed in the Argyll & The Isles Strategic Tourism Partnership Visitor Economy Recovery and Growth Strategy 2022 – 2025. Opportunity The project vision is to provide a coherent and integrated visitor experience, that integrates the wildlife hides and nature trails, with modern, high-quality facilities including EV parking, campervan spaces and toilets, to support access to the natural environment and wildlife spectacles on offer on Islay. The project will expand the current trails and hide car park area and enhance the onsite facilities. - High quality visitor experience - New publicly accessible, all gender, 24/7 toilets - 25 parking spaces (an increase of 15 on the current car park) including o up to 3 accessible bays, o up to 5 campervan bays o 1 coach/bus bay o 10% bays with EV charging provision - Outdoor arrival space with seating - Sheltered / indoor visitor arrival and orientation area
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 77 Islay: Loch Gruinart is located at the north of the island and is one of two publicly accessible RSPB reserves on the island. As tourist attractions not part of the whisky industry, the reserves stand out, family friendly outdoor attractions. Loch Gruinart is li mited by its current facilities, but has the potential to provide more capacity for visitors, support for EV vehicles and increase visitor numbers in a Islay
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 78 sustainable way with an attraction with year round appeal. These maps are reproduced from Open Street Map data licensed under the Open Data Commons Open Database License Concept proposal Project objective Address limitation of existing toilets and visitor arrival experience, increase capacity for visitor numbers to support sustainable tourism and transport, thereby supporting the destination with year-round appeal and capacity to support tourism in and outside of the peak season Project description Expansion of the ‘trails and hide’ car park area, to create a new and modern visitor arrival with visitor facilities Key elements • Two 24/7 all-gender toilets (with one accessible) • c.25 parking spaces (an increase of 15 on the current car park) • including up to 3 accessible bays • including up to 5 campervan bays • 1 coach/bus bay • 10% bays with EV charging provision • Sheltered visitor arrival area with seating and orientation and information signage Timescales • Flexible • Seeking immediate start of design & consenting process • Targeting construction commencing March 2025, subject to funding • 8-month construction programme anticipated Permission required. • Planning permission o NatureScot and SEPA statutory consultees Land ownership • RSPB Scotland are the landowner Stakheolders / Approach to Partnership & Collaboration RSPB Scotland propose to engage with the following stakeholders: • Argyll & Bute Council – planning authority • NatureScot and SEPA • Neighbouring tenants • Islay Community Council • Local community groups • Wildlife tour groups (Brightwater, Nature Trek, Wild Discovery) RSPB Scotland will use local supplier and materials where possible. RSPB Scotland enjoy strong community links, engagement with local schools and communities. Outline cost Outline cost estimates have been provided by the project lead. Element Scale Cost Funding option Total Cost £800,000
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 79
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 80 This map is reproduced from Ordinance Survey material with the permission of Ordinance Survey on behalf of the Controller of His Majesty’s Stationary Office Crown Copyright 2024. AL100017966 Images of Loch Gruinart Nature Reserve, the arrival point site, Barnacle Goose and Lapwing. Barnacle Goose used under Creative Commons, by Andreas Weith
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 81 Project evaluation Impact Sustainability/ Mission Zero Issues/ barriers Timescale Delivery Agents Dependencies None High impact - Addresses limitation of existing toilets and visitor arrival experience, - Enhances visitor experience to meet RSPBs ambition to deliver the very best, authentic and memorable experiences. - Increases capacity for visitor numbers (150% parking increase). - Supports a destination with year-round appeal and capacity to support tourism in and outside of the peak season Highly sustainable - Supports RSPB’s mission to care for and protect the nature reserve - Provides EV charging - Cycle parking i.e. supports car free tourism - Supports biodiversity, education and nature conservation No significant barriers Suitable for early start subject to planning/consents and that further associated design work as required Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) Prioritisation Summary Priority Level Outlook 2030 Strategy Other notes Impact Sustainability Deliverability 4 5 5 Priority Score 14 High priority - High impact - Highly sustainable - Project has undergone design development. - RSPB have intention to advance the project as soon as possible Key priorities met are: - Our thriving places: project strives to protect and invest in the natural asset, landscape, scenery and heritage; continued protection enables tourism to be managed effectively and support more visits in a sustainable way. - Our memorable experiences: Loch Gruinart offers a year round attraction
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 82 supporting visits to Islay in shoulder months
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 83 Summary of projects & orders of cost Island Project number Project Project type Cost estimate Potential funding Evaluation score Tiree 1 Hynish Site organisation / car park expansion / directional and arrival signage £142,500 Elements are RTIF eligible 13 Bute 2 Bute Forest Arrival point, car park and facilities £183,000 Elements are RTIF eligible 13 Seil 3 Ellenabeich Slipway Marine infrastructure: Slipway & pontoon £280,000 Elements are RTIF eligible 11 Mull & Iona 4 Gateways to Staffa & the Treshnish Isles Interpretation signage & shelter £50,000 Elements are RTIF eligible 12 Staffa 5 Staircase Pathway – safe, sustainable access £1,753,000 Elements are RTIF eligible 11 Lunga 6 Paths Pathway – safe, sustainable access £100,000 Elements are RTIF eligible 11 Mull 7 Bendoran Car park expansion, EV, motorhome facilities, toilet, shower and laundry facilities £335,000 Elements are RTIF eligible 12
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Argyll & Bute Islands STID 84 Mull 8 Tiroran Forest Car park expansion, EV, motorhome facilities, toilet, pathway and interpretation point £335,000 Elements are RTIF eligible 12 Mull 9 Aros Park Car park expansion and pathway £70,000 Elements are RTIF eligible 11 Gigha 10 Acahmore Gardens arrival Car park expansion, arrival point and toilet facilities £680,000 Elements are RTIF eligible 13 Islay 11 RSPB Loch Gruinart Car park expansion, arrival point and toilet facilities £800,000 Elements are RTIF eligible 14
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85 Classification: OFFICIAL Conclusions, Next Steps and Recommendations In conclusion, the ten projects outlined present a unique opportunity to support sustainable tourism development in Argyll and Bute by enhancing visitor experiences, improving accessibility, and conserving natural and cultural assets. Through strategic investment in these projects, the region can continue to position itself as a premier destination for tourists seeking authentic and enriching experiences. Tiree's Hynish project, with its site organisation and expansion plans, has the potential to create a destination of national significance while addressing infrastructure needs and supporting community functions. Bute Forest's new arrival point and facilities will improve access to a community wood which has become an important destination and educational asset, enhancing recreational opportunities, and addressing the current lack of facilities and parking. Ellenabeich's marine infrastructure project will provide rare public access to the water, fostering marine tourism and economic opportunities for Seil and addressing conflicts around the ferry pier and the natural slipway. Mull's Aros Park and Bendoran projects, along with Tiroran Forest, will expand parking, facilities, and interpretation, dispersing visitors and promoting sustainable travel options. Sheltererd interpretation signage at Ioan and Ulva ferry, offering the pre-visit information required to support sustainable experiences on Staffa and Treshnish will enhance visitor experiences and support local businesses. Improved access on Staffa and bird-watching paths on Lunga will enhance conservation efforts and visitor safety. Gigha's Achamore Gardens project will improve arrival facilities and encourage active travel, while Islay's RSPB Loch Gruinart project will expand parking and facilities, accommodating more visitors sustainably and year-round. The strategy of investing in sustainable tourism addresses a variety of pressures faced by the rural islands of Argyll and Bute. Infrastructure Constraints: Many islands experience limitations in infrastructure, such as inadequate car parking, toilet facilities, and signage, which can lead to congestion, safety hazards, and degradation of natural areas. Environmental Degradation: The increasing number of visitors, particularly during peak seasons, puts pressure on fragile ecosystems, leading to habitat destruction, pollution, and loss of biodiversity. Community Strain: Small island communities often struggle to cope with the influx of tourists, especially when there is a lack of affordable housing, seasonal worker accommodation, and support services, resulting in social and economic challenges. Infrastructure investment is a part of the picture in addressing this and supports wider initiatives which consider housing and accommodation. Transportation Challenges: Limited transportation options and accessibility issues can hinder visitor mobility and exacerbate congestion on roads, particularly during peak tourist seasons. Sustainability Concerns: Unsustainable tourism practices, such as overdevelopment, resource depletion, and carbon emissions, threaten the long-term viability of the tourism industry and the well-being of local communities and ecosystems. By addressing these pressures through strategic investment in sustainable tourism projects, such as infrastructure upgrades, environmental conservation initiatives, community engagement programs, and sustainable transportation options, the proposed investment in key projects aims to mitigate negative impacts, promote responsible tourism practices, and foster a more resilient and sustainable tourism industry in Argyll and Bute. To support the implementation of the proposed projects, financing will be required, potentially funded through a combination of public grants, private investment, community funding, and partnerships. Argyll and Bute Council can apply for RTIF funding to support any of the above projects. Prioritisation of projects will be informed by stakeholder engagement, the Expression of Interest process, existing Argyll and Council priorities, and readiness of project leads to advance.
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86 Classification: OFFICIAL RTIF Funding Application Argyll and Bute Council can explore the option of applying for Rural Tourism Infrastructure Fund (RTIF) funding to support the implementation of the proposed projects. RTIF offers financial support for projects that aim to enhance visitor experiences, improve infrastructure, and promote sustainable tourism in rural areas. By leveraging RTIF funding, the council can support Project Leads to access additional resources to supplement other sources of financing and support the implementation of key projects. Combination of Funding Sources To meet the financial requirements of the proposed projects, a combination of funding sources may be necessary. This could include public grants from government agencies at the local, regional, and national levels, private investment from tourism businesses and developers, community funding through crowdfunding campaigns or community-led initiatives, and partnerships with non-profit organizations, philanthropic foundations, and corporate sponsors. Prioritisation Criteria To inform the assessment of priorities the project evaluation included seeks to score projects objectively, assessing their potential impact in addressing pressures, their merits in terms of sustainability and the likely complexity. The 10 projects are priority sites for tourism infrastructure development, this study verifies their assessment as such. The project evaluation highlights where projects have differing strengths. The Staffa staircase project, for example, whilst highly complicated and challenging, is capable of significant impact, supports sustainable tourism and supports tourism regionally with international appeal. The projects assessed are varied in their ambition, scale, and objective. They seek to address many differing issues and pressures and they strategically connected as island destinations but are not interdependent and so project evaluation scores therefore are intended to assist with and augment a larger prioritisation process. Whilst this study has sought to evaluate the 10 projects, the prioritisation of projects will be informed by several factors, including further stakeholder engagement, the initial and any ongoing Expression of Interest (EOI) processes, existing priorities of Argyll and Bute Council, and the readiness of project leads to advance. Stakeholder engagement sessions will provide an opportunity for local communities, businesses, and other stakeholders to voice their preferences, concerns, and priorities regarding the proposed projects. The EOI process has allowed project leads to submit proposals outlining project details, objectives, timelines, and funding requirements. Importantly, the readiness of project leads to advance their projects, including securing necessary approvals, permissions, and partnerships, will be considered in determining project prioritisation. Argyll and Bute Council's existing strategic priorities, such as economic development, environmental sustainability, and community empowerment, will also guide the prioritisation process. This study is intended to assist in identifying valuable and strategically important projects which can support sustainable tourism in Argyll’s islands. The study can inform Area Plans at a strategic level, and at a project level can be used to position projects for potential external funding. Future Updates This Sustainable Tourism Infrastructure Development Plan is intended to be a live document which can be reviewed and updated to reflect the findings of ongoing project developments, engagement and respond to the results of other studies and plans as they emerge.