Port of Cromarty Firth Supports Inchindown Heritage Project with £2,500 Donation
The Port of Cromarty Firth (PoCF) has announced a donation of £2,500 to the Invergordon Development Trust (IDT) to support the next phase of the Inchindown project, helping to preserve and share one of the area’s most remarkable historic sites.
The Inchindown oil tanks, located beneath the hills to the north of Invergordon, are of significant historical importance. Constructed during World War II, the vast underground tanks were used to store fuel for military ships docking at the town’s port. Hidden from view for protection, the oil was transported through a network of pipes directly to the harbour, playing a vital role in wartime operations.
The Port previously supported Phase 1 of the project, which focused on digitally mapping the interior of the tanks and creating a virtual reality (VR) walkthrough. This innovative approach has allowed the unique scale and structure of the tanks to be experienced by a much wider audience, despite their inaccessible location.
The newly awarded funding supported Phase 2 of the project, which delivered enhancements to the virtual experience including a voiceover tour with subtitles, the addition of photographs, and improved overall programme performance.
IDT also collaborated with researchers at UHI Moray to develop Phases 1 and 2 of the pioneering VR project.
The latest version of the VR experience was demonstrated at the community open day hosted by the rugby club on 30 May, where members of the public were able to try it for themselves.
Following completion, the plan is for Invergordon Museum to host the VR setup, after which it will be launched for user testing to help identify further improvements.
Looking ahead, the long-term ambition is to make the experience accessible online, as well as through a VR installation within the Invergordon Museum. The Invergordon Development Trust also intends to explore opportunities to monetise the experience through a pay per view model, either digitally or via a physical installation. Any revenue generated will be reinvested into the local community, supporting future development projects.
Donna Smith, Chair of Invergordon Development Trust, said: “We are incredibly grateful to the Port of Cromarty Firth for their continued support. The Inchindown tanks are a fascinating part of our local heritage, and this funding allows us to build on the success of the initial digital mapping project and create a more engaging and educational experience for visitors.”
Alex Campbell, Chief Executive at the Port of Cromarty Firth, said: “We’re proud to support the Inchindown project and help preserve an important piece of the area’s wartime history. By investing in digital solutions, this project ensures that the story of the tanks can be shared with a wide audience while delivering lasting benefits for the local community.”
The Community Sponsorship Programme aspires to improve, safeguard and develop Cromarty Firth communities, for the benefit of local people.
Community projects, schools or local charities based in one of the nine communities that border the Cromarty Firth are welcome to apply for support. They can do so by submitting an application form stating the project’s objectives, aspirations and the benefits to the community, along with a letter/email of support from their local Community Council.
Projects must be collaborative and meet one of four eligibility criteria:
- Skills development, employability or job creation,
- Vessel crew or passenger support,
- Environmental protection or enhancement,
- Events or projects which encourage inter-community collaboration.
Application forms are available on the Port of Cromarty Firth website or from cfpa@cfpa.co.uk.
