Loch Ness bike park applicants meet community to outline their £3.4 million Ride Ness plan and its potential for jobs
A community event to explain the concept of establishing Scotland’s first purpose-built bike park in hills overlooking Loch Ness and Fort Augustus has been hailed a great success by the organisers.
They say there was overwhelmingly positive feedback received from some 100 people who attended to find out more about plans for the £3.4 million Ride Ness development on Glendoe Estate.
Plans have been lodged with Highland Council for permission to establish the new outdoor destination five-minute walk from Fort Augustus and close to the shores of Loch Ness.
As part of a longstanding commitment to engage with the local community, the project team recently held the event to showcase the plans, potential employment opportunities and community and economic benefits Ride Ness will deliver if it achieves planning approval.
Andrew Vernon, founder of Ride Ness, said: “We are really pleased with the positive response we had at the community event, it has further reinforced that there is local support and enthusiasm for a world-class project like ours in the area.”
If the planning application is successful Ride Ness plan to create a range of permanent, year-round full and part-time roles for local people, and visitors will be encouraged to use Ride Ness as a base from which to explore the rest of the region, supporting local businesses.
Before the event, Chris O’Brien, managing director of Nevis Range Mountain Experience further west down the Great Glen, said: “As a long-standing advocate for sustainable tourism and community-driven initiatives, I am thrilled to see the development of Ride Ness.
“This project promises to bring a significant boost to the local economy by creating quality year-round jobs and encouraging longer visitor stays, which is something we at Nevis Range have seen the value of first hand.”
The bike park has been designed to make mountain biking accessible and fun for children and newcomers as well as offering a new challenge to experienced riders.
More than 24km of mountain bike trails have been designed to encourage progression, offering something for every style of rider.
In addition to the biking experiences, Ride Ness will also offer access for the public to explore 700 acres of Highland wilderness on the shores of Loch Ness, perfect for hikers and dog walkers.
Younger children will enjoy the adventure playground and mini Land Rovers, and there will be an on-site eatery called ‘Forks’ that describes itself as a destination “for the most discerning foodie”.
Mr Vernon added: “We have worked really hard to build relationships with the local community, to get their thoughts and feedback and of course, answer their questions.
“We are now looking ahead to what we hope is a positive decision from the local authority.”
A planning decision from Highland Council is expected by the end of the year.
