A year on from its official opening, Ionad an Stòir (The Storr Centre) has delivered an impressive debut, with soaring visitor numbers and a six-figure surplus helping shape a new era of sustainable tourism on Skye.
The Highland Council confirmed this week that the award-winning development near the famed Old Man of Storr has exceeded expectations across the board since welcoming its first visitors in July 2024.
Over 293,000 people visited the site in its first year, marking a 43 percent rise compared to 2022.
Income from parking fees and sales generated a surplus of £450,296, now being reinvested directly into local infrastructure and services.
A report presented to the Skye and Raasay Committee on Monday (1 September) outlined a string of successes, from the creation of six new jobs to the support of over 20 local suppliers.
“This has been a landmark achievement in sustainable, community-led development,” said Councillor John Finlayson, Chair of the Skye and Raasay Committee.
“The site at the Old Man of Storr is supporting jobs, promoting sustainable tourism, and improving the overall visitor experience at one of the island’s most famous attractions.”
The development includes a visitor centre with retail and events space, guided walk provision, a revamped path network, EV charging points, motorhome facilities, and upgraded toilets.
Crucially, the surplus income has allowed reinvestment not only at the Storr but across Skye and Raasay, including £282,000 towards road improvements at popular hotspots such as the Fairy Pools, Neist Point and Coral Beach.
Two new Visitor Experience Supervisors, both formerly with VisitScotland, have also joined the team, adding depth to the centre’s frontline expertise.
Localism and sustainability have been central themes throughout.
With over 150 Highland-made products on sale and a strong focus on quality, the centre has become a showcase for the island’s creative and craft sectors.
Ionad an Stòir has already picked up multiple awards, including the Highland Council Convenor’s Award and TripAdvisor’s Traveller’s Choice titles for both 2024 and 2025.
Looking ahead, Phase Two of development is now underway.
Backed by UK Shared Prosperity Funding, plans include expanding the retail offer, launching wedding services, and building out ecommerce capacity.
The council now views the project as a template for sustainable income generation and rural investment that could be adapted across the region.
“This project has proven to be a tremendous success,” said Cllr Finlayson.
“I congratulate everyone involved on all their work to date.”
