Future of Fort William to be discussed with public

A consultation aimed at discussing the future of Fort William and the wider Lochaber area is to be held next week.

Amid the number of major developments already on-going in the area, Lochaber residents have been invited to attend a FW2040 consultation event, jointly organised by Highlands and Islands Enterprise, Scottish Government and the Highland Council. To help plan for the changes, a draft masterplan is being prepared, called Fort William 2040, or FW2040, which will detail the ways in which the town and wider area can best take advantage of these developments.

Taking place next Wednesday, September 12, at the Nevis Centre, the event will involve workshops between 10am and 4pm and an evening session starting at 7pm when participants will be asked to contribute to finalising a vision for the future of Fort William and agree how it will be delivered.

A Highland Council spokesperson said: ‘There are a number of changes on the horizon in Fort William ranging from investment in the former smelter, relocation of the Belford Hospital and new industrial and housing development. To help plan for these changes a draft masterplan is being prepared – showing how the town and the wider Lochaber area could best take advantage of these developments.

‘We would like local people, businesses and interest groups and public agencies to work together in finalising this masterplan.’

Topics for discussion will include where or when development takes place, the supporting infrastructure improvements that are needed and who might need to be involved in implementing proposals. Visit the Highland Council website to find out more, or phone 01463 702276 to confirm attendance.