Forestry Commission Scotland and Highlands & Islands Enterprise are inviting local people, businesses and communities to give their feedback on the completed Leanachan Masterplan which could see for a 5-star resort hotel, bunkhouse and low-impact alternative tourist accommodation and a campsite all located in an enhanced woodland setting.

A drop-in day at the Pinemartin Café, Nevisrange on the 4th November (2-7pm) will include a presentation at 3pm on the project.

Robert Grant, part of the Forestry Commission’s team managing the project, said: “We’ve established good links and a robust feedback process with key stakeholders and the wider community who are keen to get involved with these developing proposals.

“We’re aiming for a resort hotel that complements, rather than competes with, existing provision in the area and consultation has highlighted a general agreement with the principle of a resort complex. The majority of participants would welcome the facilities and the additional tourist numbers that it could bring.

“We’re still listening, though, and have already taken on board the feedback we’ve received. This latest version of the proposal includes some changes to the bunkhouse as well as some new elements including the Lochaber Rural Complex site and Ski Range and we’re now looking for further comment.”

Leanachan covers 7,300 acres of national forest land and is a popular draw for tourists. The area provides access to The Nevis Range, world class mountain biking, scenic walking trails and helped Lochaber gain the “Outdoor Capital of the UK” status.

The Commission’s Masterplan for leisure and tourism-accommodation proposals known as the Nevis Forest and Mountain Resort, at Leanachan by Fort William, aims to ensure that future recreation and forestry activities work closely together in a co-ordinated and sustainable way.

Designed by Smith Scott Mullan Associates, the joint project is being viewed as a 20-year scheme, but the team behind it hope to be able to apply for planning permission next summer.

The masterplan is broken into four development zones.

The first involves the creation of a five-star resort hotel and spa, with a luxury lodge development. There are three options for this part of the project, including an 80-room spa hotel, 50 high-quality lodges, or a combination of both.

The other zones cover additions to the Nevis Ski Centre, including car park improvements and extensions, an area of cabins, camping pods and yurts, with a bunkhouse close to the major sporting activities in the area.

The team promoting the resort say they want to create a venue which is a ‘world-class destination in its own right and from which all the attractions of Fort William and wider Lochaber region can be explored’.

If all the parts of the project come together the total investment in the project is estimated at £25m.