Funicular Railway repairs cannot start until Spring 2020

The study by US consultants SE Group looked into maximising Cairngorm Mountain as a premier ski centre and visitor attraction, and what investment would be needed in the future.

HIE said it is their ambition is to repair the structure and return the mountain railway to service, which all investigations carried out so far indicate would be technically achievable.

Specialist engineers found beams, piers, and foundations all need to be strengthened and new bearings need to be installed on the Funicular Railway to make it usable again.

Artificial snow making at lower levels and ski tows to higher runs will be made operational to support snowsports access, and achieve previous ski visitor numbers of 130,000 a season.

Enhancements are also being proposed to maintain the mountain's popularity throughout the year, including the introduction of a mountain coaster within the base area to improve ease of access to all visitors.

Other proposals suggest mountain biking opportunities to be explored, improving food and drink offers, interpretative signage, and family activities to make the base area welcoming but also sympathetic to the natural environment.

Douglas Cowan, director of communities and place with HIE, said: 'Cairngorm is a key asset for Scotland, both environmentally and economically, and the funicular is a key asset for Cairngorm.

'It’s absolutely vital that we continue to address the serious challenges caused by the funicular being out of action and ensure that Cairngorm Mountain remains a significant driver of the local economy.

'HIE and the Scottish Government are agreed that repair is the preferred option in principle, though it’s important to stress that we need to conclude the engineers’ reviews and determine costs and funding sources before this can be approved.

'At the same time, we must continue to look to the long-term, and ensure that local people have a meaningful opportunity to put forward views that will inform a future masterplan that will shape our experience of Cairngorm for decades to come.'

Susan Smith, interim chief executive of Cairngorm Mountain (Scotland) Ltd, said:

'This has been a difficult period for Cairngorm Mountain, but the staff remain absolutely dedicated to the mountain and the business, and are putting in a tremendous effort to create a brighter future.

'We very much welcome this update, which underlines both the fantastic potential of Cairngorm as a national asset and the importance of the funicular to a successful mountain resort.

'It is absolutely vital that we establish CMSL as a viable business, with strong growth potential and a key role in supporting the wider economy of Badenoch and Strathspey.

'With support from HIE, we are already implementing some of the original report’s recommendations, including improvements to facilities and activities at the base area, in ways that are in keeping with the mountain environment.'