19 Apr New bridges to transform access at iconic Fairy Pools in latest Skye development
Work is underway at one of Skye’s most iconic sites, the Fairy Pools, to help install two bridges that will improve accessibility and safety measures for those visiting the popular destination.
The new steel and timber clad bridges will help transform access to the site, which is hugely popular with visitors, allowing access in all weathers for those less able or confident to cross the existing stepping-stones.
The installation has been carried out as part of the Skye Iconic Sites Project (SISP), which will see the habitat restoration and development of three of Skye’s most used sites including the Quiraing, Old Man of Storr and Fairy Pools. This diverse project is being led by Outdoor Access Trust for Scotland (OATS).
Last year, £800,000 was invested in the development of a 140-space car park and off-grid toilet block at the Fairy Pools. The completion of the new bridges, which span approximately 11m and are steel beam and timber clad, is the next phase of planned activity to take place at the site.
Dougie Baird, CEO of Outdoor Access Trust Scotland, said: “The Fairy Pools are a much loved and enjoyed tourist attraction for visitors all across the globe, the newly installed bridges will make a huge difference in improving accessibility for visitors, particularly for when the burn is high and difficult for many to cross to reach the Pools.
“People will now be able to safely enjoy them no matter the weather, especially those with less confidence or mobility issues, and enjoy the scenery. This and the other ongoing work as part of SISP is vastly improving the visitor experience to Skye’s special sites.”
SISP is part of an almost £9 million Scottish programme of projects to invest in the Highlands and Islands to provide more and better-quality opportunities for visitors to enjoy natural and cultural heritage assets. The Natural and Cultural Heritage Fund is led by NatureScot and is part-funded through the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).