Concerns have been raised about the decision to close a popular Perthshire tourist attraction during the summer.
The fish observation chamber at Pitlochry dam allows visitors to watch salmon swimming up the fish ladder but it closed this week for four months.
The chamber closed to allow major work to be carried out on the site’s hydro station and will not be open again until September 28.
SSE bosses apologised for the disruption but Perthshire North SNP MSP and deputy first minister John Swinney said he was “troubled” by the decision to close the attraction during the peak tourist season.
“This will clearly have a significant impact on the tourist industry in Pitlochry,” he said. “I am troubled by the timing of this closure and will be writing to SSE to seek clarity on their decision making process and to enquire as to whether alternate arrangements can be made.”
Car parking will also be reduced during the work, although Pitlochry Dam visitor centre will remain open and a counter will be set up to show how many salmon pass through the ladder.
Andy Hay, SSE’s hydro operations manager, apologised for the disruption.
He said: “Pitlochry dam and fish pass observation chamber have been must-sees for locals and tourists in the area for decades and we appreciate how much people enjoy coming to see the site.
“However, safety is our number one priority at SSE and due to the nature of these works, we must temporarily close the observation chamber to ensure the work can be carried out as safely and quickly as possible.
“We apologise for any inconvenience caused during the works and would encourage visitors to the area to head over to the Pitlochry Dam Visitor Centre to find out more about our hydro heritage.”
Mike Williamson, SNP councillor for Highland Perthshire, did not think the closure will have a negative impact.
He said: “The work does need to be completed and measures have been put in place so people can still see things, although the chamber is shut.
“There will be a counter inside the visitors centre and pictures will also be shown.
“My understanding is it was an operational decision to keep people safe while the turbines are repaired.”
