Detailed plans have been lodged to build a St Kilda visitor centre in North Uist.
When up and running, the project could result in a yearly boost of a third of a million pounds for the local economy.
The proposed single storey facility would be built near the top of Beinn Riabhach at Scolpaig in the north west corner of the island.
North Uist is the closest inhabited island to St Kilda some 40 miles out to sea and the elevated site is said to provide the best view of the archipelago anywhere in the Outer Hebrides.
Constructing the ambitious centre at road level would be much easier but the spectacular panoramic view from the higher vantage point will be worth the extra distance while also taking in many other numerous previously inhabited islands.
On cloudy days, webcams will beam footage of St Kilda’s stunning cliffs and stunning landscape to visitors.
Behind the project is a community-
Now the group are submitting further details to the comhairle and hope to secure planning clearance this summer.
In their submission to planners, Fraser Architecture, the local designers of the facility highlight how there is “huge potential” to create high quality interpretation facilities focusing on St. Kilda.
“Interest in the UNESCO World Heritage site of St Kilda has grown greatly in recent years.
“Today there are summer boat trips from the Outer Hebrides and an increasing number of cruise ships include St Kilda on their itinerary.
“Even with improved transport links, however, a visit to St Kilda is still reserved for the more adventurous travellers and the vast majority of visitors to the Outer Hebrides will never be able to make the journey to St. Kilda.
St Kilda visitor centre plans move forward
7 April 2021
Fraser Architecture
Fraser Architecture
St Kilda can be seen from the location