Restored info’ centre had 20,000 visitors
A community-led Callander information centre has seen more than 20,000 visitors since it opened in May.
Formerly run by VisitScotland, the Main Street facility was shut in February as the tourism body pointed to a decrease in visitors.
The decision was roundly criticised by councillors, MSPs and community groups.
However, the centre reopened in May in a collaboration between Callander Community Council, Callander Community
Development Trust and the Sir Walter Scott Steamship Trust of Loch Katrine, who all contributed funding.
It has been staffed by steamship company employees and enthusiastic and knowledgeable volunteers.
Visitor centre board chairman Frank Park said: “We are very pleased with how the first season has gone both in terms of the numbers of visitors using the service and in how the partnership has worked.
“And of course, it would not have been possible without the invaluable contribution from our team of dedicated and skilled volunteers who gave up their time to share their experience of Callander and the surrounding area. We’re also grateful for the sterling financial and staffing support from the Steamship Trust as well as the support from Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, VisitScotland and Stirling Council.”
As well as providing comprehensive information services on things to see and do, where to stay and route planning, the centre is also the base and box office for community-led events such as Summerfest in July and the Jazz and Blues Festival in October.
The centre has closed its doors for winter, but is hoping to be open at some key periods in the coming months.
Chief executive of the Sir Walter Scott Steamship Trust James Fraser said: “The centre provided an important showcase for Callander and the wider Trossachs area and it also played a vital role in reassuring visitors that the historic steamship was operating normally following the devastation caused by landslides at the north end of Loch Katrine in early August.
“It has more than justified our presence and has reinforced the great importance that visitors place in having access to knowledgeable local people to get the most out of their stay which can never be substituted by reliance on the internet.”
Anne Docherty, one of the main organisers of Callander Summerfest, said: “The centre was a great asset to Summerfest this year by providing box office facilities in a central location, giving visitors more detailed information about our events and keeping up-to-date on any last-minute changes.”