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Previous plans for a mountain/heather garden development suggests a longer time scale, this in our view has to be urgently reviewed and brought forward. It is essential that this proposal, if acceptable is acted on in some way sooner rather than later. On closure the Looking Ahead Group will cease to be, and after closure the danger of a long gap or vacuum in any development of this site could cause problems in regenerating this community.

The gardens of Kinlochleven proposal along with proposals for the carbon factory site is seen by the group as the best possible opportunity of providing sustainable employment in the village. Unemployment is not an option and we look to this project as a means to sustaining the present levels of employment in Kinlochleven, if not more.

The Looking Ahead Group see this project developing thus:

Given our geographical situation and in relation to our climate any development to attract the tourist and indeed the tourist industry would necessitate the gardens being under one roof. Thoroughly researched the gardens of Kinlochleven with a botanical garden theme and a fully developed dome concept could on this site be the catalyst for the regeneration of Kinlochleven.

The detailed planning for such a project will involve the examination of:

The natural potential of the site - ecology/light/water sources, etc.
The botanical garden concept - heating/lighting propagation/water temperature control.
Indicative layout, structural concept - necessary groundwork.
Income and revenue generating capacity on site. P
otential funding - capital costs.
Maintenance requirements for such a project.
Market research - potential visitor numbers.
Management structure and business planning.

Within this concept and especially on this site there should be in-built potential for an energy programme using water generation to power the site and also providing waterfall/cascades within the structure.
A dedicated botanical theme to include facilities for science studies, horticulture, education, energy centre, conservation, lifelong learning centre involving community projects, schools projects etc, and facilities for visitors.
This type of sustainable garden development would enhance the prospects of the carbon building site and both would go some way to provide jobs in the community. Both projects with state of the art technology and an enhanced visitor facility have the potential to be a major aftraction year on year.

If as a group we are asking people in the community to care for and support these changes - some means of providing some economy - some prosperity - some long term sustainable security has to be in-built within these proposals