MSP joins battle for Killiecrankie visitor centre’s future
Killiecrankie’s aging visitor centre was the subject of discussions earlier this week, with support for its future development voiced by Perthshire North MSP, John Swinney.
He and Highland ward Cllr Mike Williamson met with key stakeholders to discuss future plans for the NTS managed Killiecrankie Visitor Centre.
There has been a drop in visitors and some concern over its future viability.
The meeting was also attended by members of Killiecrankie Community Council, the National Trust for Scotland and visitor centre staff. It presented an opportunity to discuss future opportunities and challenges for the centre, as well as ideas of how to enhance it and ways to maximise potential commercial gains.
The visitor centre sits at a unique spot: the scene of the first Jacobite battle, The Battle of Killiecrankie of 1689, when the rebel forces enjoyed a victory over Government forces. It was also the place where the first hand grenades were used on British soil.
Commenting on the discussions on Monday evening, Mr Swinney said: “The tone of the meeting was positive, highlighting the important role that the Killiecrankie Visitor Centre plays in promoting local history and re-affirming our commitment to ensuring the long-term sustainability of the facility.”
Cllr Williamson added:“I know first-hand how important this facility is to the area and to Highland Perthshire as a whole, and I will continue to engage with key stakeholders going forward.”