The local community in the Highlands will be given the opportunity to view and provide feedback on a planning application submitted by Black Sheep Management Services for a major upgrade to the Glen Garry Viewpoint.

The proposal includes a new visitor centre, café, shop, and associated car and coach parking on land at the iconic viewpoint, which is currently a lay-by on the A87 road to Skye.

The development is designed to support Highland Council's aims to improve roadside infrastructure for visitors by providing safe parking and high-level services, including food, shopping, and toilet facilities.

A key driver of the proposal is the persistent issue of litter, human faeces, and general waste being dumped at the viewpoint. The provision of a managed facility with toilets and litter collection is intended to address this, complementing the scenic setting.

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The centre will also significantly enhance road safety. The existing lay-by will be closed and converted to a standard grass verge to ensure motorists use the proposed designated car park.

• The local community will be able to park for free at the Viewpoint, while visitors will pay (with the first 15 minutes free).

• Foul drainage will be collected and treated by a bespoke wastewater treatment system in compliance with SEPA regulations.

Black Sheep Management Services, which has invested over £75 million in the Highlands hospitality sector to date, stated the development is predicted to create 30 full-time and 20 part-time locally based jobs.

An integral element of the proposals is a dedicated space within the visitor centre for local artisans to display and sell their products. Furthermore, the applicant is committed to ensuring the use of local supply chains and services to improve community resilience.

A spokesperson for Black Sheep Management Services commented: "In addition to delivering a cleaner environment and addressing road safety issues, the development will also deliver local employment opportunities... We very much welcome the opportunity to engage with the local community on this, address their concerns and provide feedback."

The proposals also include cutting back trees that currently obscure the views from the viewpoint, which is famous for its vista stretching to Knoydart, where Loch Garry appears to take on the shape of mainland Scotland.

• Drop-In Event

The local community can learn more, ask questions, and provide feedback at a drop-in event being held on Thursday 4th December between 1pm and 6pm at Glengarry Community Hall.