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Brian Wilson hails Aviemore centre demolition as key to economic success
30/03/1998
Long-awaited plans to secure the comprehensive redevelopment of Aviemore represent a "substantial boost" to the area's economic future, Scottish Industry Minister, Brian Wilson MP, said today.
Speaking at the demolition ceremony at the old Aviemore Centre, Mr Wilson said:
"After a number of false starts over the years, I am delighted that the commitment of all the partners in this initiative looks like reinforcing Aviemore's position as the Highlands' premier tourism location. Aviemore has always had the potential to be a beacon for tourism, both in winter and summer. There is now an obvious commitment by the main economic agencies, and their private sector partners, to exploit to the full the potential of both the Aviemore Mountain Resort and the whole of the surrounding area.
"The opportunities which Aviemore offers have always been acknowledged by Highlands & Islands Enterprise, the local enterprise company and the Council, and I pay tribute to the way they have worked together, along with the private sector, to ensure that - at long last - the transformation of Aviemore can be achieved."
BACKGROUND
1. The Aviemore Redevelopment Agreement has been concluded between the Aviemore Partnership and the Aviemore Mountain Resort (Macdonald Hotels). The demolition ceremony today takes place at part of the Aviemore Centre and has been timed to co-incide with the formal launch of the Aviemore Redevelopment Agreement. The Agreement is the result of a partnership the main public development agencies and the owners of the Aviemore Mountain Resort, and charts a way forward for the village to re-establish its position as the premier tourism location in the Highlands.
2. The Aviemore Mountain Resort is what was formerly known as the Aviemore Centre. The Aviemore Partnership was formed in 1994 and brings together Moray, Badenoch & Strathspey Enterprise, the Highland Council and Scottish Natural Heritage (who between them have been the main providers of funding) and representatives of the local community.
3. It is envisaged that public sector support to redevelopment projects at Aviemore, mainly channelled through the Highlands & Islands Enterprise network, will amount to over £12 million over the next four years.
News Release: 0660/98
March 30, 1998