Vow to back sports centre cash bid

A HIGHLAND MSP has pledged her support to help plug the funding gap for a new Lochaber indoor sports centre.

The proposed multi-use centre in Fort William is still £ 500,000 short of the £1.47 million required.

And at a meeting with Lochaber chamber of commerce, Highlands and Islands MSP Rhoda Grant promised to help Lochaber sports association find the remaining money by contacting potential funding backers.

She said: ‘This would enable schools, clubs and the surrounding Lochaber community to have access to a facility that would allow sport and activities all year round.

‘Fort William is famed for its outdoor activities, and also the rain, so having a purpose-built indoor sports hub would provide a major boost for Lochaber.

‘I will be contacting Highland council, Sports Scotland and other potential financial backers in an effort to support the funding bid and to shore up the current £ 500,000 funding gap for the development. I am convinced of the need to secure this facility for Lochaber and will seek to support the bid and Lochaber chamber of commerce in their work to ensure Fort William gets this important indoor sport hub.’

Bruno Berardelli, chamber chairman, said: ‘We were delighted that Rhoda made the time to come and meet Lochaber chamber and we had a very constructive discussion. We highlighted our support for Lochaber sports association’s work to develop an indoor sports facility and of the importance of retaining existing leisure facilities including Mallaig swimming pool and the Nevis centre, which are under threat from budget cuts. Lochaber is a fantastic area, and the undisputed outdoor capital of the UK. But we do get the occasional wet spell, so it is crucial we have indoor amenities for tourists and locals.’