A basic, open shelter will continue to be available for walkers and climbers at Camasunary, in Skye when the existing bothy is taken back by its owner, probably in late 2015, thanks to a new building project currently underway.
The new bothy (Photo: Major Iain Lamont)
59 Commando Squadron Royal Engineers have completed the building of a new bothy which will now be fitted out by volunteer members of the Mountain Bothies Association. The driving force behind the project was Alan Johnson, the owner of the present Camasunary bothy, who was concerned that when he resumed his own use of the building, there would be no basic accommodation available in the area for those who had enjoyed the bothy in the past and those who would visit the area in the future.
Discussions have been taking place for some time between the landowner, Alan Johnson, and the MBA about a possible replacement bothy.
Planning approval for a new open shelter was obtained in August this year. 59 Commando Squadron Royal Engineers agreed to take on the building work as a community project; work started at the end of September and is now complete. All internal fitting work will be undertaken by MBA volunteers.
The new shelter is single storey and will have two rooms. The building is of block and timber frame construction faced with local stone. Although it will not have a fire or stove, it will be insulated throughout. It will be fitted out with bunks and other fixed furniture and will be able to accommodate 15 people.
The new bothy is on the east side of the bay at Camasunary about 1km from the existing MBA maintained bothy, which will remain available for use until such time as the new building is completed. Camasunary is a popular overnight stop on the Skye Trail long distance route as well as being a walking destination in its own right often included in a circuit of the Elgol peninsula.