 Poster: A snowHead
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Not sure if this has been posted before. But looks like feelers are going out for potential buyers of Cairngorm. I'd say, with bare runs and revenue on the floor, this is probably the worst possible time to try. Anyhow, a snowHeads bid?
http://www.grough.co.uk/magazine/2012/02/26/government-agency-seeks-possible-buyers-for-troubled-cairn-gorm-ski-resort?printview=1
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The CairnGorm Mountain snowsports centre, along with its controversial funicular railway, is currently owned by Highlands and Islands Enterprise, but the agency is exploring a potential sale.
The development agency built the funicular, which runs up the north side of Britain’s sixth highest mountain, and the ski lifts, restaurant and other facilities at the snowsports centre.
Following protracted financial problems, HIE took over the operator of the ski resort, CairnGorm Mountain Limited, in 2008.
The Scottish Government agency said at the time of the takeover, it did not intend to retain long-term ownership of the business, and would investigate alternative options for its operation and management.
HIE said: “Following two recent outstanding skiing seasons, it is testing the market to gauge interest from potential future operators.” |
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Obviously A snowHead isn't a real person
Obviously A snowHead isn't a real person
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Bode Swiller, you and Goldfinger to lead? 
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Well, the person's real but it's just a made up name, see?
Well, the person's real but it's just a made up name, see?
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Pure fishing expedition! I suspect there are various motives, HIE would like no doubt to offload the long term liabilities of ownership of the mountain, but in reality it's very unlikely they will find someone interested in the operating company that is willing to take on ownership of the mountain. On the other hand if they get any interesting and promising potential business models suggested, no doubt HIE and CML will be happy to run with them. Anyone expressing a serious interest with radical proposals should tread very carefully imho.
The Forestry Commission walked away about 5 years ago. The National Park does not want land ownership and the RSPB is one of the very few organizations with the relevant land management skills and deep enough pockets to take on both the company and the mountain - but it would create monumental problems for itself with sizable chunks of it's membership.
If HIE remain in ownership of the mountain they are going to have to face up to the reality that the only way they protect their existing investment to date on the Mountain and its value to the wider economy of Strathspey is further very significant investment. Though I do think there is scope for the operating company CML being sold for a nominal sum into the ownership of a Community Interest Company set up with members from the local business community, skiers, clubs and the local community in general.
There is on CairnGorm Mountain (uniquely in Scottish Snowsports) the potential for both upwards and downwards expansion, downwards expansion into less sensitive ground providing much greater opportunity for additional year round facilities than on the high mountain, and the potential to create a snowsports area with a 3000ft vertical descent. The topography of the mountain, the place in terms of Glenmore, Loch Morlich and nearby Aviemore and the highest natural tree line in Scotland provide a unique opportunity to provide a truly exceptional facility, but it requires real vision and deep pockets.
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