Housing is one of Scotland’s most pressing challenges, particularly in rural areas, where a shortage of affordable, sustainable homes is contributing to depopulation and economic strain. The Scottish Land Commission’s latest report highlights the critical need for more housing and suggests that public land acquisition could help drive development.
However, while there is an undeniable national need, those involved in land ownership and development often encounter strong local opposition when proposing new housing projects. This is a recurring theme in many of the public consultation events we facilitate—landowners come forward with well-considered housing proposals, yet face resistance from local stakeholders concerned about infrastructure, environmental impact, and the changing character of their communities. This raises an important question: how do we strike a balance between delivering much-needed homes at scale while ensuring local voices are heard? The Challenge: National Demand vs. Local Concerns Scotland needs more housing, and the case for increasing rural supply is well documented. Key challenges include:
Striking the Right Balance Achieving the right balance requires early, meaningful engagement that fosters mutual trust and understanding. From my experience in public consultation and community engagement, I believe the following is crucial: 1. Shaping Developments With Communities, Not Just For Them Public engagement should not be a tick-box exercise but an opportunity to shape housing developments around local needs. Communities must feel like active participants in decision-making, not just recipients of pre-determined plans. 2. Clear, Transparent Communication Many housing proposals face opposition due to misconceptions about scale, purpose, or impact. Developers and landowners need to clearly articulate the benefits of new housing. 3. Exploring Alternative Models Innovation in rural housing models could help bridge the gap between local concerns and national need. Some promising approaches include:
4. A National Strategy That Respects Local Priorities While national policies set the direction, successful rural housing delivery requires flexibility at a local level. Councils, landowners, and communities must work together to ensure that local housing needs are met in ways that align with Scotland’s broader housing goals. The Road Ahead: Constructive Conversations Over Conflict The reality is that Scotland’s housing crisis cannot be solved without rural development. However, if we do not address the concerns of local communities, progress will continue to be slow and contentious. The conversation needs to shift from “whether we should build housing” to “how we can build the right homes, in the right places, in a way that works for everyone.” By fostering constructive, open conversations, we can move beyond opposition and delays towards solutions that benefit both communities and the nation as a whole. Lucy Laidlaw Communication specialise in facilitating meaningful conversations between landowners, developers, communities, and policymakers. If you’re facing challenges in rural housing engagement, we’d love to help. Get in touch to discuss how we can support your next project. As we watch fireworks illuminate the sky on Guy Fawkes Night, it’s a fitting reminder of how a single spark can have far-reaching effects. Similarly, the outcome of the U.S. presidential election creates ripples that are felt around the world—including in rural Scotland.
While it may seem distant, decisions made in Washington can influence everything from our local economy to the environment, affecting the livelihoods and landscapes we hold dear. We know how critical it is for rural organisations to understand these global shifts and communicate effectively with their stakeholders. So what are the major impacts? Economic Impact: The Whisky Export Market One of the most significant ways the U.S. election can influence rural Scotland is through trade policies. The United States is a vital market for Scotch whisky, one of Scotland’s most iconic and economically crucial exports. Any changes in trade agreements, tariffs, or economic strategies implemented by a new U.S. administration can have a profound impact on the industry. The whisky sector has already experienced volatility in recent years. For example, the imposition of tariffs on single malt Scotch whisky during trade disputes caused significant financial losses for distilleries, many of which are the lifeblood of rural communities. A U.S. administration that prioritises free trade and resolves ongoing disputes can bring relief and stability to the market, benefiting workers, local businesses, and the wider economy in rural Scotland. However, if trade tensions escalate or new tariffs are introduced, the opposite effect could ripple through our communities, leading to job losses and economic hardship. It’s a vivid example of how interconnected the global economy is—and why staying informed about international policies is vital for rural industries. Agricultural Markets and Trade Agriculture is another cornerstone of rural Scotland’s economy, and U.S. trade policies can have a substantial impact on our farmers and food producers. Changes in tariffs, import-export regulations, and trade agreements can influence the global supply chain, affecting the prices and demand for Scottish agricultural products. For instance, if a new U.S. administration imposes protectionist policies or renegotiates international trade deals, it could alter market access for Scottish exports such as beef, lamb, and dairy products. Additionally, any shifts in U.S. agricultural subsidies or farming standards could create a ripple effect, influencing competition and market prices on a global scale. Moreover, with the U.S. being a major consumer of international agricultural products, changes in American consumption patterns and trade relationships can significantly impact Scottish farmers. For rural communities dependent on agriculture, the consequences of such shifts can be profound, affecting income stability and long-term planning. Proactive engagement and strategic communication are crucial for farmers and agricultural organisations to adapt and advocate effectively. By understanding these global dynamics, we can better support rural Scotland’s agricultural sector, ensuring resilience and future growth. Climate Policy and Land Management Another critical area where the U.S. election can impact rural Scotland is climate policy. The U.S. plays a significant role in global climate action, and the stance of the new administration can either accelerate or hinder international efforts to combat climate change. For rural communities in Scotland, whose livelihoods often depend on the land, changes in global environmental policies can have direct consequences. For instance, a U.S. administration committed to renewable energy and international climate agreements, like the Paris Agreement, could inspire stronger global action, benefiting our agricultural sector and safeguarding our natural heritage. Conversely, a lack of commitment to climate change initiatives could slow progress and put pressure on local communities to take on greater environmental responsibilities, potentially impacting farming practices, conservation efforts, and land use in rural Scotland. International Relations and Community Resilience The U.S. is a key player in shaping international relations, and its foreign policy choices can have far-reaching effects. From economic sanctions and diplomatic alliances to defence policies, these decisions influence global stability, which in turn impacts rural areas. For rural Scotland, whose economy is intricately linked to international tourism, agriculture, and renewable energy projects, global political stability matters. A stable and cooperative international landscape can open up opportunities for growth and investment, while geopolitical tensions may pose challenges. What This Means for your Rural Stakeholders I believe that understanding and responding to global changes is crucial for rural businesses and organisations. As a communication consultancy dedicated to rural businesses, we work with clients to develop strategies that keep their stakeholders informed and engaged. Whether it’s navigating the complexities of global trade for whisky producers, addressing community concerns about climate change, or preparing for shifts in international relations, effective communication is key. By proactively managing these conversations, we can help rural organisations remain resilient and adaptable, ensuring that our communities thrive despite global uncertainty. While the outcome of the U.S. election may seem distant, its effects can be as far-reaching as a firework lighting up the sky. From the whisky industry’s reliance on international trade to the agricultural markets and environmental policies that shape our land, rural Scotland is deeply connected to global events. This Guy Fawkes Night, as we watch the sparks fly, let’s remember the importance of preparing for the ripple effects of global change. We’re here to help you navigate these shifts and keep your community informed, engaged, and ready for the future. How do you think global events like the U.S. election influence rural Scotland? I’d love to hear your thoughts. The Power of Tone, Style, and Delivery in Communication: Lessons from the Budget Announcement31/10/2024
In any communication, particularly when delivering difficult or sensitive news, the tone, style, and delivery can shape public perception as much as the content itself. This concept is not just relevant to high-stakes situations but applies broadly, from corporate messaging to political speeches. A recent and very public example of this principle was seen during the budget announcement
Yesterday, Chancellor Rachel Reeves, introduced significant economic measures. While the policies themselves sparked much discussion and debate, what caught many people’s attention—and criticism—was the delivery. Critics argued that Reeves appeared overly jubilant, even celebratory, while announcing measures that would have tangible impacts on people’s personal livelihoods. The backlash underscores a vital communication lesson: No one wants to feel that those delivering difficult news are disconnected from the reality or weight of the decisions being made. People expect and deserve a tone that reflects empathy, understanding, and the significance of what’s at stake. Why Tone Matters as Much as Substance Tone isn’t just a superficial layer; it carries emotional weight. Even if a decision is necessary and well-founded, the delivery can make a difference in how the public perceive the organisation. A somber, empathetic announcement that acknowledges the hardship and shows understanding will land much better than one that appears indifferent or overly upbeat. The same principle applies to public announcements affecting the economy or people’s day-to-day lives. A tone that fails to convey understanding can breed resentment, mistrust, and the perception that decision-makers are out of touch with the people their decisions affect. Communication should be about building connections and showing that you are aware of and respect the gravity of the message you are delivering. The Role of Style and Delivery Style and delivery are closely intertwined with tone. How a message is structured and presented can influence its reception. Clarity and straightforwardness are crucial, but so is the pacing of the message. Is the speaker rushing through critical details, or are they taking the time to emphasise key points with care and empathy? Delivery also encompasses body language, facial expressions, and voice modulation. In high-stakes scenarios, a steady and composed demeanor can be just as important as the words being said. Rachel Reeves’ case exemplifies how celebratory body language or an upbeat tone can detract from the message’s importance, leaving an impression of insensitivity. The Impact of Empathetic Communication When delivering bad news—whether it’s an economic policy, corporate change, or a difficult conversation in daily life—leaders should strive for a delivery that conveys understanding and respect. People are more likely to respond constructively when they feel that their concerns have been acknowledged and considered. Empathy in communication builds trust and maintains the credibility of the messenger, even when the message itself is hard to accept. Practical Tips for Delivering Tough Messages 1. Acknowledge the Impact: Begin by addressing how the decision or situation affects people. A simple acknowledgment can go a long way in demonstrating empathy. 2. Use a Measured Tone: Avoid extremes—neither overly upbeat nor excessively grim. Aim for a balanced tone that reflects seriousness while remaining composed. 3. Choose Your Words Carefully: Language matters. Opt for clear, direct phrases that don’t downplay the seriousness of the situation but also avoid alarmism. 4. Focus on Connection: Communicate with the aim of connecting, not just informing. Be mindful that your audience is made up of people whose experiences and reactions matter. 5. Prepare Your Delivery: Whether it’s a speech or a company announcement, take time to practice the delivery. Pay attention to your body language, and ensure your non-verbal cues match your verbal message. The Call to Action Communication is an art and a science, especially when the message is difficult. If you’re responsible for sharing complex or sensitive information, consider taking a moment to reflect on how tone, style, and delivery can shape your audience’s perception. Are you creating a connection, or are you inadvertently alienating the people you’re speaking to? If you’d like to discuss strategies for delivering impactful messages that are received with the respect and gravity they deserve, I’d love to chat. Let’s explore how to use communication to not only inform but also engage and empathise with your audience, even in the most challenging of conversations.
As a flurry of emails and social posts jump back and forth from my land owning clients this morning about all the work that has already taken place this morning following last night's storm - work that aims to keep their employees and tenants safe as well as members of the public taking recreational access to these land holdings, I am reminded of the immense amount of work and commitment that goes in to owning and maintaining land. One weather warning and tomorrow's 'to do' list goes out the window or grows considerably. Plans for meetings are exchanged for 'all hands on deck' to make repairs, check animals and keep others safe, and this is before we factor in the many requests from surrounding communities to help clear debris, tow abandoned vehicles and share kit outwith their own patch.
With land and property management comes great responsibility and cost; it isn't all about commercial gain; it is the capacity to drop everything and fix problems in order to create safe environments for others. So as many of us stay warm and safe this morning, abiding by Police Scotland's request not to travel (and I include myself in that), let's consider for a second that, yes, there are lots of benefits for those who own and manage land, but there is also a great deal of work and responsibility to ensure the wellbeing of many - so let's look for the ones that are helping and maybe show and touch of appreciation. They are after all protecting our access to amenity land, our food supply, our bio-diversity and our climate - yet I am not exactly sure what I have done to be allowed to call it mine!! Stay safe out there! MILL Architects, one of Scotland’s top architectural businesses, is delighted to announce the appointment of two new directors to strengthen the existing management team.
Jo Parry-Geddes, RIAS Advanced Accredited Conservation Architect, and Darren Albury, who heads up the technical team, have been with the firm for five years and seven years respectively. They join current director Richard Webb, following the retirement last month of founding director Chris Duncan. Richard welcomed the appointments and said: “Jo and Darren exemplify the strength of talent at MILL and bring the commitment to clients and colleagues on which we pride ourselves. Their complementary skills will enhance the team considerably and I look forward to working with them as we continue to build our practice.” Darren Albury: “I am incredibly proud of everything MILL has achieved over the last seven years, and I am excited to have the opportunity to help lead the practice through its next chapter. The construction industry has been through some challenging years and I believe MILL has played an important role in supporting our clients’ interests. Rural development continues to be an important focus for the practice and I have enjoyed engaging with this community.” Jo-Parry-Geddes: “As a Conservation Architect and Retrofit specialist, securing the future of Scotland’s historic and traditional properties has been my passion for the last twenty years. At a time of climate crisis, sustainability and thermal efficiency are more important than ever. Ensuring MILL becomes the market leader is my primary focus. I am absolutely delighted to join Richard as a Director of MILL Architects and continue to build on the valuable work they have delivered to date.” MILL Architects is a creative, design-led firm working across Urban, Rural and Heritage environments. We are dedicated to creating innovative and sustainable designs that integrate the unique character of each location. The practice cares deeply for the environment and our built heritage. New Directors: Darren Albury Darren started his career in architecture in 1995 at Wheeler and Sproson Architects, before moving into Development Management, working for several Housing Associations in Edinburgh and Fife. He later joined MILL Architects in 2016, where his years of experience has been valuable in the delivery of residential, commercial and rural projects across Scotland. His expertise in IT and software ensures the smooth running of MILL’s computer and communication systems. Jo-Parry-Geddes Jo studied architecture at Duncan of Jordanstone College Art & Design, Dundee. She progressed her career as a Conservation Accredited Architect over the last 18 years gaining experience at PJMP Architects, A. Campbell Mars, Covell Matthews and Wheeler and Sproson. She completed her Part 3 at University of Edinburgh in 2004 and latterly worked at Hypostyle Architects as an Associate Director. Jo was awarded RIAS Conservation Accreditation in 2005 and in 2018 became Advanced Accredited. Connect with Jo on LinkedIn ENDS For more information contact: Lucy Laidlaw Lucy Laidlaw Communication 07834228951 | [email protected]
Love him or loathe him, many feel that Jeremy Clarkson has done more to raise awareness of the challenges facing farmers than the large scale organisations whose main role is to do just that! But I am not here to discuss his popularity, I was however very interested to witness his approach to community engagement in the second season of Clarkson's Farm.
For those who have not watched it, Jeremy Clarkson received daily emails from angry members of the community complaining about traffic management, unsightly car parks and the impact of people and traffic on the community. His reaction? To call them morons! Far from ideal! But with a bit of a prod from his advisers, he realised that things were going to go far more smoothly if he built a relationship with the people of Chadlington. So what did I take away from it? 1. Don't call the community morons for a start! 2. Don't expect to give the community freebies and sponsorship and for that to be considered meaningful engagement! 3. Do make time to meet people, understand each others' constraints, concerns and challenges and discuss ways to move forward that work for both parties. 4. Do share your decision making processes. 5. Do listen to feedback and give it proper consideration. 6. Do open up the channels of communication for ongoing discussions 7. Do meet in a mutually convenient place that will allow as many as possible to attend. 8. Do discuss the wider benefits for all. and finally 9. Do keep engaging, this is an ongoing process. Now I know television is edited, but it was amazing how quickly the tone of the discussions changed from both parties when they sat in a room together and discussed their challenges and concerns. If people don't understand your operating environment, constraints and decision making processes, how can you expect unwavering support - equally how can you expect people to feel comfortable engaging with you face to face when all they have received is aggressive and rude correspondence. Good communication works both ways and rarely do angry emails get anyone anywhere! Misinformation (Half the farm turning into a car park!?) flows quickly when there is not an opportunity to set the record straight - so stop it spreading by giving people the opportunity to hear direct from the source. Contrary to one comment about Clarkson not needing the money, I think most people recognise that a business has to be financially sustainable for it to be able to survive. When a land based business is successful it brings huge benefits to a community, from investment in renewables to employment, access to the natural environment, biodiversity and yes perhaps sponsorship for the local football team and free wildflower seed! So I most definitely don't approve of many of his behaviours, but I am pleased to see him engaging positively with his community. Long may it continue. If you want to discuss your approach to community engagement then please get in touch.
Yesterday I attended the launch of the Scottish Land and Estates research paper on the contribution rural estates make to Scotland's wellbeing economy. If you have a spare half an hour, then you can read it in full here.
Many of you will have heard me talk about the importance of celebrating achievements before we ask 'what's next', and this piece of research does precisely that. It doesn't claim there isn't more to be done or that there isn't an appetite to do more, but it helps us to recognise how much is already being done, something that has been missing from the land reform debate thus far. The research was managed by Biggar Economics, a well-known and well-respected organisation working across many sectors to identify economic impacts. Interestingly this particular piece of research was headed by Shona Glenn, formerly Head of Policy at the Scottish Land Commission, who was well versed in the land use versus land ownership debate and the impact land and how it is used can have on surrounding communities. In Shona's presentation to gathered politicians, media, academics and wider stakeholders, she not only identified some of the significant contributions made by Scottish landowners but also stressed how pleased she was to hear a desire from existing landowners to do more. She also identified that this was the first group to look at their contribution to the wellbeing economy in this way, and Tom Arthur MSP identified it as "groundbreaking". The report identifies that Rural Estates have a 'significant' impact on seven of Scotland's 11 National Outcomes, highlighting their contribution to the environmental, economic and community outcomes as 'particularly large'. So let me give you a whistle-stop tour of what the report identifies rural estates are currently contributing:
After the initial presentation, questions were received from the floor, with the Financial Times exploring the impacts of scale - the message was clear - net zero will not happen without significant scale ownership - which presumably is why the Scottish Government is the largest land owner in Scotland and continues to buy more! Through my clients and my experiences working with Scottish Land and Estates and Buccleuch, I have witnessed the overwhelmingly positive attitude of landowners who want to create thriving rural businesses that benefit all. Like many I get frustrated when sweeping anecdotal statements are made that aren't backed up in fact, and I am delighted that I (and many others) can now back up my anecdotal statements about the incredible initiatives taking place across with country with data! So now we have done some celebrating, by all means let's look at what we can do better or how we can help others to learn from some of the existing projects already out there. I can't wait to see the stats next time!
Copyright 2022 BIGGAR Economics Ltd
On 19 January 2023 Mount Stuart Trust will host two consultation events on new proposals to site a campsite at Ettrick Bay.
The consultation events form part of Mount Stuart Trust’s commitment to engage meaningfully with members of the local community on its land use activities across the Island. The drop-in sessions will take place at the Ettrick Bay Café between 1pm and 3pm and at The Bank of Ideas in Rothesay between 4pm and 6pm. Members of the community will have an opportunity to view drawings of the proposed site and raise any questions with the Mount Stuart Trust team. Fiona Hardie, Community Liaison Officer, Mount Stuart Trust said: “We are aware that concerns have been raised about visitors parking vehicles on the verges and footpaths at Ettrick Bay and leaving rubbish behind when they leave. The proposals will explore an opportunity to create a dedicated space for campervans and caravans to avoid this happening in the future. “The next step in the process is for us to understand the thoughts and opinions of those who live and work on the Island and we would encourage as many people as possible to attend.” For those who are unable to take part in the events, drawings of the proposed site can be viewed below and any queries sent to [email protected] Later this month the Mount Stuart Trust will be launching their community engagement strategy following a survey undertaken in 2022. ENDS For further information contact: Fiona Hardie Community Liaison Officer [email protected] About The Mount Stuart Trust The Mount Stuart Trust is a Charitable Trust managed by a board of independent Trustees, which works to facilitate public interest, understanding and appreciation of the arts, architecture and the rural environment. The Trust manages and maintains a series of assets across the Isle of Bute, including Mount Stuart House and gardens, 36 farms, 110 residential properties, 1447 hectares acres of woodland and approximately 21 commercial properties, including golf courses, bowling greens, fishing and gaming leases. All funds generated through its operations are reinvested into the Trust to ensure a long-term sustainable future that continues to create economic value for the Isle of Bute through employment, tourism revenue, housing and much more.
Or perhaps it is the other way around!
With the publication of ‘Making the Most Out of England’s Land’ on the 13th of December, I was eager to see how the issue of land, how it should be used, who should benefit from it and who should lead the debate would be tackled by the Land Use in England Committee. We have seen many reports and guidance published by the Scottish Land Commission north of the Border, and I think I have read (almost) all of them, so what are another 103 pages between friends? First things first, the tone is entirely different from anything official we see on the issue of land in Scotland; in the summary alone, we are seeing language like ‘help’, ‘supporter’ ‘, facilitator’ and ‘appropriate’ and would you believe it, they are talking about helping and supporting the land owners and managers so that they can make sure land delivers as much as it can for everyone. It recognises the challenging environment they are currently operating in and demands urgent clarity on future support for agriculture. It identifies how land use balance is hard to get right with many competing objectives around biodiversity, climate change, housing, food production and wellbeing. Yet, the word ‘ownership’ appears only twice in the report. Now I know that the Committee’s focus is Land Use, but in Scotland, we have been led to believe that the only way Land Use can benefit the many is if the existing ownership pattern is addressed. Despite evidence to the contrary, the focus remains on breaking up large Estates, and it raises the question of how will Scotland meet all these competing demands if scale is encouraged to be viewed as the enemy. Creating a Land Use Commission and a land use framework has so much opportunity to do good if its commissioners look at land holistically and avoid focussing on one issue when there are so many areas where they could add value. The appointment of the Commissioners will be critical, and I encourage the Land Use Committee to consider the importance of including land owners and managers with first-hand experience managing land for the benefit of the many. However, the big ticket item in the report seems to be access and the right to roam, something that has been strengthened in Scotland since the 2003 Land Reform Bill came into play. This is where there is a huge opportunity to learn from Scotland and some of the mistakes that have been made. In Scotland, all guidance and interventions from the Land Commission have focussed on the rights of those to gain access without highlighting the importance of doing so safely and responsibly. Issues of fly-tipping, sheep worrying and anti-social behaviour rumble on with minimal comment – however, any sign of restricted access, no matter the reason, is quickly jumped on and made an example of. To gain buy-in from land owners, the Land Use Commission in England must look at how access can be provided in a manner that creates a safe and constructive environment for all competing land uses and doesn’t demonise those trying to meet our food production and climate change goals. Interestingly there is minimal reference to community engagement in the report, something that has been hugely successful in building positive relationships between landowners and those who access the land. If access rights are on the agenda, it strikes me that community engagement has to go hand in hand to ensure a mutual understanding of challenges and opportunities. Scottish Land and Estates has many examples of excellent working relationships, much of which was in place before the Land Commission’s guidance. And although a route map must be created for the future of land use, I hope time is also given to understanding, recognising and celebrating the immense good that is already done. Many land owners and managers in Scotland feel they are being demonised no matter what they do and what they deliver – unless of course what they are doing is breaking up their land holding. So can England learn from what has gone before in Scotland? Absolutely, but I for one am not quite ready for a carbon copy!
Imagery of the unit is available to download here The Mount Stuart Trust is offering to let Mid Ascog Farm, a dairy unit close to Rothesay on the Isle of Bute – the Trust’s fourth 20-year MLDT made available on the Island since 2020. Mid Ascog is a well-equipped dairy unit with First Milk membership and has a range of modern buildings, a three bedroom farmhouse and approximately 179.41 ha. The successful applicant will enter into a 20-year Modern Limited Duration Tenancy (MLDT), with the entry date to be Spring 2023. The land is a mix of silage and arable ground with a good amount of permanent pasture. The farm has been milking 110 head through a 20/10 parlour, has 155 cubicles across two buildings and is complete with a 4,000-litre milk tank. This latest farm brought to the rental market by The Mount Stuart Trust follows the arrival of Emma and Ewan Irvine on Bute in 2021, when the This Farming Life cameras captured their move to Ardros Farm, which they took on a 20 year MLDT. More recently, Mount Stuart Trust re-let a Bute Dairy Farm with First Milk Membership to Chris and Katie Homer who have now successfully completed their first year on the island. Harry Bowman, Rural Operations Director at Mount Stuart Trust, said: “In the last two years, we have brought four new farming families to the island on long tenancies. We understand there is a lot of uncertainty in the sector at the moment, and we believe that offering a longer tenancy can provide a greater level of security and attract the best tenants. “The families and businesses that have moved to the Island in the last two years are thriving, and we are excited to hear from those looking to follow in their footsteps. Mid Ascog provides a great opportunity to grow a thriving farm business. It also has the potential to add great social and economic benefits to the Island by bringing new people to Bute or offering a new business opportunity for someone already living and working on the Island.” Stanley Wright is marketing the tenancy; viewings can be arranged with them directly. The deadline for tender proposals is noon Monday, 23 January 2023, after which a shortlist of candidates will be invited for an interview with the date of entry soon after that. ENDS For more information, contact: Lucy Laidlaw | Lucy Laidlaw Communication | [email protected] | 07834228951 About The Mount Stuart Trust The Mount Stuart Trust is a Charitable Trust managed by a board of independent Trustees, which works to facilitate public interest, understanding and appreciation of the arts, architecture and the rural environment. The Trust manages and maintains a series of assets across the Island of Bute, including Mount Stuart House and gardens, 36 farms, 100 residential properties, 1447 hectares acres of woodland and approximately 21 commercial properties, including golf courses, bowling greens, fishing and gaming leases. All funds generated through its operations are reinvested into the Trust to ensure a long-term sustainable future that continues to create economic value for the Island of Bute through employment, tourism revenue, housing and much more. |