Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park Authority (LLTNPA) has confirmed that it will continue with its plans to appoint a private operator for the Luss Visitor Centre.

The authority is now in negotiations with Purdies of Argyll to operate the venue, having selected the company from a range of bids submitted by businesses and a local community organisation. Any proceeds from awarding the visitor centre lease to an operator will be re-inivested in visitor management of Luss and West Loch Lomond, while the attraction will continue to provide local information.

LLTNPA deputy convener Colin O'Brien said: "At an economically challenging time for Scotland, the leasing of this building to Purdies of Argyll is great news for the local economy as a number of local posts will be created to work in the centre." Denise Purdy, managing director of Purdies of Argyll, added: "We are very excited to be identified as the preferred bidder for the Luss Visitor Centre and are committed to providing the best possible service to Luss visitors and residents in keeping with National Park aims."