Indoor Multi-Purpose Facility - Fort William 2040 (FW2040) projects

This FW2040 project was initially focused around the key town centre community facility of the Nevis Centre and the future sustainability of the services and facilities it provides to the town. In response to proposals detailed in the Town Centre Masterplan (see the separate Town Centre Masterplan project) however, which explored culture and leisure more broadly and developed co-ordinated proposals encompassing several facilities within the town, a wider Culture and Leisure Options Appraisal for Greater Fort William has now been completed.

This appraisal has reviewed key culture and leisure facilities and services across the area, including sports, recreation, arts, events, libraries and community venues. The core venues evaluated include; the Nevis Centre but also Lochaber Leisure Centre, Fort William Library, Ben Nevis Visitor Centre, Lochaber High School (out of school hours), and the Lochaber Archive (all of which are Council-owned but operated by others).

The findings highlight that while existing facilities continue to provide valued services, some are ageing, have limited flexibility and are increasingly costly to maintain. Demand for culture and leisure activities remains strong, particularly for accessible indoor spaces available in the evenings and at weekends.

The appraisal identifies opportunities to improve provision through enhanced multi-use facilities, potentially combining refurbishment of existing buildings with new development. Work is continuing to identify the most appropriate next steps for building on the appraisal findings and progressing fit-for-purpose facilities for the town for the future. This will also be informed by development of the Councils Highland-wide Sports Strategy, which is underway and due for completion by the end of 2026.

FW2040 Project Manager

Highland Council's Highland-wide Sport Strategy Update.