Innovation Voucher Project: Inchindown Oil Tanks

The aim of the project was to increase and promote tourism to the Invergordon area. The Inchindown Oil Tanks are a human made spectacle that are currently underused for tourism and ideally should add to the value of the cruise liner and North Coast 500 tourist experience. The tanks which were used to hold supply fuel during World War 2 are of importance to the area and over the years have welcomed film makers, scientists and now our research team. Through this development a key aim was to provide a unique experience that would allow people to experience the tunnels without having to physically be on site.

Donna Smith, Chairperson of Invergordon Development Trust:

“The project has been really interesting and a useful learning curve in terms of the logistical considerations, technical requirements and what is achievable.  Although covid and various other issues delayed the project, the end product has been worth the wait and is going to be really interesting for the public to view.  It has also already generated lots of discussion about how to enhance it for the future to further enhance the product and will bring the tunnels to life for so many people who will be unable to go and visit them physically.”

Dr Malcolm Clark and Finlay MacDonald, UHI Moray project team:

“The project team enjoyed working with the Invergordon Development Trust on the project. The very complex nature of the project brought various challenges along with covid related delays, however the project team remained enthused and positive to succeed. The proof-of-concept produced so far is impressive and has received much positive feedback. It provides a fantastic opportunity for those not able to access the tunnels a realistic experience of what is inside.  We are excited to receive the feedback and move onto phase 2 to further develop the proof-of-concept with advanced features.”

• Read the Ross-shire Journal article: Tunnel vision reveals secrets of wartime Easter Ross asset Inchindown