Responding to HIE's announcement that the cost of fixing the Cairngorm Mountain Funicular Railway is set to rise to £25m, Edward Mountain MSP commented:
“Why am I not surprised that the costs have gone up by so much, indeed not far off what I have previously predicted. One questions who has been managing this asset for the country.
“Would we have been better installing a different form of lift to get the capacity we need at a lower cost? Also, how much will the previous operator contribute to the final repair bill?
“If the funicular is ready for winter 2023 then this would be a huge boost for a local tourism industry.
“While I am pleased, following my calls earlier this year, that the Scottish Government committed a further £7m to the repairs, I am however concerned that HIE have had to reallocate funding from the Cairngorm masterplan investment package.
“Many will be left wondering what knock-on impact that will now have on the masterplan and I will be seeking further clarity on this matter.”