A new retail and multi-purpose space has opened to the public at an 'iconic setting' on the Isle of Skye.
‘Ionad an Stòir’ or ‘The Storr Centre’ provides retail space and a multi-purpose room which showcases local suppliers and products, with the multi-purpose space available for registrar wedding ceremonies, art & music exhibitions, Gaelic events, and community use.
Located at the Old Man of Storr site, The ‘Ionad an Stòir’ unit was custom built in Barra by local firm Modular West.
The Old Man of Storr is an iconic and internationally acclaimed visitor attraction, with annual visitors reaching approx. 200,000 per year. On a clear day, the landmark can be seen from miles around and is a renowned symbol of Scotland.
Monday marked the official opening of the ‘Ionad an Stòir’ or ‘The Storr Centre’ by Skye and Raasay Area Committee Chair, Cllr John Finlayson.
READ MORE: I failed to appreciate why the Isle of Skye is so enchanting until now
Cllr John Finlayson said: “I am honoured and extremely proud to officially open ‘Ionad an Stòir’ and mark the momentous achievement of ‘The Storr’ wider project and the truly remarkable visitor enhancements to this iconic setting.
“The new building and services such as guided walks, small wedding gatherings and event space for community use, the significant ‘Old Man of Storr’ path network improvements, new car parking, EV charging points, motorhome waste disposal and improved toilet facilities has brought this extremely popular/high demand visitor attraction to a standard that is expected from today’s visitor, while retaining the majestic heritage of this remarkable landmark for both the local community and for visitors to Skye.
“I’d like to thank the Skye community for their valuable involvement throughout the project, that helped shape the decision making process to ensure our Gaelic culture and the heritage of Skye was integrated into each part of the rebrand and design of the new site, and to the remarkable project team and stakeholders for their vision and steely determination to ensure that this ambitious project which supports tourist management, local businesses and income generation to be invested back into the Skye & Raasay Ward, has become a reality. I hope that ‘The Storr’ can continue to be enjoyed for many years to come.”
‘The Storr’ has been awarded a Traveller’s Choice Award by TripAdvisor.
Islands Secretary Mairi Gougeon said: “I would like to congratulate The Highland Council and the Skye and Raasay community on the opening of Ionad an Stòir and I am pleased the Scottish Government was able to contribute £440,000 through our Islands Programme. This exciting project will support sustainable economic development on the island, while promoting its Gaelic heritage and strengthening Skye’s incredible tourism offer further.”
‘The Storr’ project is supported by funding from The Highland Council’s Skye & Raasay Ward budget, Islands Programme, Place Based Investment Fund, Coastal Communities Fund, and the Community Regeneration Fund.
The official opening of the ‘Ionad an Stòir’ or ‘The Storr Centre comes after The Storr visitor attraction launched its dedicated and branded website in March last year, providing information that aims to enhance the visitor experience.
The website includes information on the history of the Old Man of Storr, maps of the paths, details of onsite facilities including parking and toilets, and directions on how to travel to the Storr.
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