Sixth ski resort 'unrealistic'

A MOVE to revive plans for Scotland's sixth ski resort on Ben Wyvis are "understandable but unrealistic", according to an economist who first investigated the possibility 22 years ago.

Last month Highland Liberal Democrat MSP Jamie Stone suggested revisiting proposals to create a resort on the Ross-shire mountain. The original project did not come to fruition, partly due to opposition from Scottish Natural Heritage.

In 1989 Inverness-based economist Tony Mackay undertook a feasibility study into a new ski centre and concluded the development would not be financially viable.

In his monthly economic report for the Highlands, Mr Mackay said: "Mr Stone and others have been understandably encouraged by the volume of snow this winter ... The last two winters have produced more snow but next year we could well revert to the previous trend."