Climbers’ anger as hydro power scheme threatens hut

Angry climbers have objected to a hydro power scheme which they say would result in the loss of their historic and “unique” mountaineering hut.

The owners of the hut, the members of the Dundee-based Grampian Club, claim that if the scheme goes ahead, the property “may well be a write off ” because it would result in its sole water supply becoming unfit for human consumption.

The Grampian Club has 230 members based in Scotland, England and beyond and acquired the tenancy of the former roadmen’s hut known as “Inbhirfhaolain” based in Glen Etive, in 1961, purchasing the property and grounds in 1991. The only water supply is from the nearby Allt Fhaolain burn. The hut is hired out at a cost of only £6 per person a night.

Club spokesperson David Gibson said: “The proposed scheme is a direct threat to this unique, low-cost accommodation which will be uninhabitable if the scheme goes ahead.

“Neither the developer nor its contractors have contacted the club. They have not considered the broader issues arising from the scheme which would affect the amenity of the hut, which has provided low cost accommodation for climbers and hill walkers for almost 60 years.

“If this scheme goes ahead, the property may well be a write off.”