New uplift being installed at Cairngorm Mountain
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Work is under way on Cairngorm Mountain to instal a new uplift conveyor belt system that will be used for snowsports in winter and mountain biking at other times of the year.
Funded by Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), Aviemore-based civil and environmental engineering firm McGowan Limited has been contracted by Cairngorm Mountain (Scotland) Limited (CMSL) to carry out the installation works.
It involves creating two 100m tracks at the lowest area of the ski slopes next to the Day Lodge.
They will then install the conveyor belt and operating system – also known as magic carpets – and carry out associated landscaping and environmental works.
CMSL is planning to construct the bike trail next year.
HIE and CMSL have been working with Developing Mountain Biking in Scotland (DMBS) on the plans for the new the attraction and the Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA) granted planning consent for the trails in May.
Tracks will suit beginners and intermediate riders, offering families a new experience on purpose-built trails.
The new facility will enhance Cairngorm’s year-round offering by providing uplift for family mountain biking, one of the actions included in the 25-year Cairngorm Mountain Masterplan published last year.
Dave Macleod, HIE’s head of property infrastructure, said: “We’re delighted to have a local firm carry out these works for CMSL.
"McGowan is a long-standing company with valuable experience in working in this type of environment.
“This is an important milestone in extending year-round uplift at Cairngorm and developing its status as an international attraction for mountain biking at beginner and intermediate levels. Developing this facility with close monitoring in place will ensure protection of the outstanding natural environment and habitat on the mountain, one of the area’s key selling points.”
Susan Smith, CEO of CMSL, said: “We are committed to investing and improving our product offering and the installation of the new tracks will greatly improve the experience of snowsports for beginners and intermediaries for this winter season.
"They will also be used as part of our exciting new mountain biking facility for 2023.”
Derek Mackay, director at McGowan Ltd, said: “McGowan are delighted to be playing a part in what we are sure will prove to be a significant addition to the facilities on Cairngorm Mountain.
"We are equally delighted that our excellent track record for carrying out constructions works on sensitive environments is once again being recognised and look forward to seeing this part of the facility in operation.”
