Rural Economy and Tourism Secretary, Fergus Ewing, today welcomed the news that a major £12m tourism development has been given the go-ahead by The Highland Council.

The Forest Holidays proposal for 50 eco-sensitive holiday cabins at Leanachan Forest - part of the Forestry and Land Scotland 20-year, £25million Nevis Forest Master Plan – will supplement and complement the existing holiday offer in the area and increase the economic contribution that the forest makes to the visitor economy.

Mr Ewing said;

“This decision is excellent news for Lochaber and for Scotland.  “The Nevis Forest Masterplan is a big idea for a big location. By creating a ‘world-class destination’ that will serve as a focal point from which all the attractions of Fort William and wider Lochaber region can be explored, it has huge potential to bring more visitors to the area and encourage them to stay longer.

“It will be a positive step-change for the area that will create jobs, boost the local economy and position Lochaber in amongst Scotland’s top ‘must see’ locations.

“The development of the Forest Holidays’ cabins is the first step in this process and today’s decision marks the beginning of a renaissance for Lochaber’s tourism sector.”

The Leanachan Forest development will follow on after two other Forest Holidays development projects – Delamere, which is due for completion in 2021, and Glentress, which will start work in autumn 2021.

Although ground works is still some time away, the project team will be working with the council,  architects, engineers and land managers Forestry and Land Scotland to engage contractors, look at site and utilities preparation to help inform the programme of works.

Forest holidays locations typically create over 50 full time jobs, buy-in local goods and produce, and welcome guests all year round. On average, each cabin generates £30k in annual visitor spend in the surrounding area.

Bruce McKendrick, Chief Executive of Forest Holidays said;

“Nevis is a truly stunning area that will appeal to everyone seeking to explore Great Britain’s amazing landscapes and forests.

“We have worked with local stakeholders on our cabin development to ensure that it both complements and enhances the existing tourism offer and will bring hugely positive benefits to local businesses, attractions and other accommodation providers.

“Tourism will play a bigger role than ever in the months and years ahead, leading to increased demand for better and more varied accommodation in the Nevis region.  Our proposal will  help meet that demand and play a part in maximising the area’s economic potential. I’m grateful for the continued support of Forestry and Land Scotland and the Cabinet Secretary in particular in having the foresight to see the broader economic benefits Forest Holidays can bring to rural locations."

Other elements in the Nevis Forest Master Plan that will follow in later years and through other partnerships, could include a proposed Hotel development, a camping/glamping offer, event parking and improvements in recreation and connectivity.

Notes to editors

1. Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) manages forests and land owned by Scottish Ministers in a way that supports and enables economically sustainable forestry; conserves and enhances the environment; delivers benefits for people and nature; and supports Scottish Ministers in their stewardship of Scotland's national forests and land.

2. forestryandland.gov.scot | twitter.com/ForestryLS

3. Media enquiries to Paul Munro, Media Manager, Forestry and Land Scotland Media Office 0131 370 5059 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.