Coastal Development

[John S]

I thought it would be worth highlighting the Councils consultation on Coastal Development in relation to tourism and recreation on the following link -

http://www.argyll-bute.gov.uk/consultat ... recreation

There is enormous potential for environmental tourism and recreation in Kintyre and I think we should be contributing to this consultation to ensure that the Kinryre coast is THE number one priority. Money for tourism development will undoubtedly follow such prioritisation so you can play your part in accessing that funding by contributing to the consultation.

I have always thought that the West Coast of Kintyre is one of the most stunning seascapes in Scotland and vastly underestimated in tourism terms. The consultation is open until the 27th April.

Also if that was a significant outcome from the consultation it would pile more pressure on bringing the A83 up to standard and add weight to the need for a ferry to Ayrshire, so please take a look.

[EMDEE]

Considering the truly amazing length and diversity of the Argyll coastline, it is surprising that there has been so little apparent interest in coastal development over the years. This diversity is reflected in Kintyre's coastline with in particular, magnificent examples of sand dune systems and raised beaches.

Of course, Kintyre's natural environment cannot be described as unspoiled, for example, there has been so much afforestation of the peninsula over the 20th Century, and in particular the environmental vandalism that was perpetrated on Beinn Ghuilean some years ago. To further use this as an example, this is where the natural environment and economic interests come into conflict, as Forestry has provided much needed employment in an area where this was desperately needed. As can be seen elsewhere on this forum, we now have a similar conflict of interests with the proliferation of wind turbines throughout the country, although in this case the local economic benefits are much more questionable.

Having just last week visited the Cliffs of Moher in County Clare, I was most impressed with the way that physical coastal environmental features have been exploited in as sensitive a way as possible to create one of the most economically important tourist attractions in the Republic of Ireland. This was at the end of March and the place was absolutely buzzing.

Kintyre may not have anything as spectacular as the Cliffs of Moher, but has its own coastal attractions and environmental interest. There is also a wealth of history of national importance in Kintyre which is underplayed in tourism terms.

The most spectacular portion of Kintyre's coastline is arguably from Machrihanish round the coast to Southend, and this is virtually inaccessible to tourists. The Learside Road on the East Coast, although an attractive area, is not suitable for heavy traffic.

However, as John S states, the A83 needs to be brought up to standard, and without the basic infrastructure, there is little point in promoting an area where tourists will remember the place for the wrong reasons, i.e. damage to their cars caused by sub-standard roads.