Local Ideas For Future Of John o'Groats

The public is being invited to have its say on the landmark which could greet visitors who have travelled the length of Britain to come to the mainland's most northerly tourist attraction.

Following the unveiling last week of proposals for the development of five star accommodation at John o'Groats, residents and businesses are being asked to look at the role art could play in the creation of a memorable, high quality destination.

A meeting organised through Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) is to be held on Tuesday (23 February 2010) at the Seaview Hotel in John o'Groats. HIE is progressing a number of priorities which were identified through public consultation and outlined in a masterplan for the future.

Carol Gunn of HIE said: "Key areas identified for phase one of the masterplan development included the restoration of pathways and parking for visitors, the redevelopment of the John O'Groats House Hotel site, and the use of art and design work to ensure we offer a unique experience which our visitors will remember.


"We are continuing to build on the positive feedback following the publication of the masterplan, and the added boost from the announcement by Heritage GB and Natural Retreats. HIE has commissioned two separate scoping exercises, on the pathways and on the art and design elements of the project."

Public art specialist, Sue Pirnie, is developing the art strategy for John o'Groats. It will compile views on how art and design could be used, how it might be funded and how artists could become involved in creating a range of projects which reflect the place and landscape.

This will include ideas for a focal point for visitors taking part in the 'end to end' experience for which John o'Groats is famous.

Sue will be running Tuesday's public meeting to discuss how art could be an intrinsic part of the creation of new facilities at John O'Groats.

"There are already many wonderful reasons, over and above the spectacular location and coastline, to come to John o'Groats. The Caithness and Sutherland area is an inspirational place for creative people and the ever changing nature of local pottery, knitwear, and jewellery is a great way to bring visitors back again and again.

"As we further develop the experience, it is important that at this early stage we look at how best to invest in quality work and a process which engages the community. Artists can contribute creative proposals which will reflect the unique nature of the place and the people, provide facilities which will meet the needs of the tourist for years to come, and offer good value for money," she said.

(GK/BMcC)