Transform the Ferrycroft area of Lairg into a modern, multi-purpose, accessible, eco-friendly, activities hub for residents and visitors of all ages
Estimated Cost
Not yet known
We aim to transform the Ferrycroft area of Lairg into a modern, multi-purpose, accessible & eco-friendly activities hub for residents and visitors of all ages.
The development of Ferrycroft has been a long-held community ambition as evidenced by the community consultation data gathered prior to writing the Local Area Place Plan (LAPP) for Lairg. Of the 16 development proposals listed within the draft LAPP, 9 concern the Ferrycroft area (P18, Lairg Area Place Plan)
The proposed developments will enhance and maximise community-use of existing assets and reflect NPF4 policies as detailed on pages 19-21 of the draft LAPP (attached)
The project is ambitious and transformative providing the district of Lairg & surrounds with beneficial facilities as befits its status as a local service centre in a remote rural location.
The project will provide activities and facilities for community organisations, families, individuals, and tourists, leading to health & wellbeing, environmental, and economic improvements for the village and its community.
Development proposals:
Phase 1 Structural Improvements and enhancements of Lochside facilities and activities
Reconstruction of existing slipway
Creation of new wharf either side of the slipway
Installation of pontoons in Little Loch Shin
Construction of lochside boardwalk to connect to existing pathway in Ferry Woods
Installation of climbing boulders and outdoor gym on land west of the football pitch
Creation of bathing bay with sand beach for wild swimmers
Phase 2 Facilities Improvements
Construction of one- and three-quarter storey building housing storage and workshop for boats & equipment; storage for paddleboard equipment; changing facilities, upstairs clubhouse with viewing platform
Upgrade existing toilet/shower facilities
Phase 3 Multi-Use Games Area, Management Facilities
Build a MUGA on land currently owned by Forestry & Land Scotland to the west of Ferrycroft Visitors Centre
Community-ownership of Ferrycroft Visitors Centre, expansion of services to include facilities/MUGA management, tourist information, catering, events
LDCI have been tasked by Lairg Community Council to deliver on the outcomes and development proposals within the draft LAPP. The company recently employed a full-time development officer who will lead on project management with support from the board of directors and Lairg Community Council.
Due to the inherent and time-consuming complexities of land acquisition, funding and feasibility, work on all three phases will run simultaneously and development of individual projects will proceed according to their own timelines.
LDCI has begun work to establish ownership of all areas of land at Ferrycroft and has met with representatives from the Highland Council and Forestry and Land Scotland to discuss the community’s plans. We are working in partnership with Loch Shin Sailing Club on proposals for improving the slipway, wharf, clubhouse build.
Next steps; Planning & Development Phase, feasibility studies, asset transfer requests, land-mapping, cost calculations and creating a funding strategy.
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