Carbisdale Castle owner's controversial application for land approved by Forestry and Land Scotland despite community objection
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Carbisdale Castle owner Samantha Kane has succeeded in her controversial bid to acquire a parcel of public land surrounding the stately building, it has emerged.
Forestry and Land Scotland, which maintains and manages the land on behalf of the public, confirmed this week that it had agreed to sell three hectares of steeply sloping land on three sides of the castle.
The purchase had been opposed by members of Ardgay & District Community Council who held an extraordinary general meeting last November to discuss the issue.
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In an unexpected move, the recently formed community council collapsed this week following the mass resignation of four of its five members. Ms Kane, who is vice-chairperson of the council, was the only member not to quit.
Ms Kane had originally hoped to buy around 16 acres of woodland around the castle from FLS, but twice scaled back her proposals due to community concerns about access and the loss of public ground.
At the November meeting, she said the land in question was a largely inaccessible “cliff” and was important to the castle and no one else. It was needed for access purposes to maintain the castle’s foundations and services.
She argued that the parcel of ground was the “minimum necessary” and was vital for the future success of the castle, which she launched recently as a prestigious private members club.
But members of the public present at the meeting expressed concern about the lack of information about what would happen to the land - whether it would be fenced off and the trees cut down.
One said that the sale of land by FLS to a private individual must have an economic and community benefit and he did not see what the benefit would be in terms of safeguarding the castle.
Following the public discussion, the four community councillors agreed to reject a motion to “recommend the sale of 7.4 acres of forestry land around Carbisdale Castle”.
However, Forestry and Land Scotland said the sale of the land would help preserve the castle and benefit the local area.
A spokesperson for FLS said: “After due consideration of the request to purchase a small parcel of land at Carbisdale Castle, we have agreed to transfer ownership of 3ha of land.
“The sale will facilitate structural repairs to the castle which will conserve and restore the grade ‘B’ listed building and allow the castle to be developed as a hotel, delivering employment opportunities and economic benefit to the local community.
“In reaching our decision we took into account the high level of public support for the owner’s long-term plans for the castle.”
Ward councillor Michael Baird has welcomed the sale.
He said: “This development will help the local economy and the creation of employment and is essential for the restoration of the historic building.
“It is good news for Sutherland and the Highlands and is a very positive step towards retaining the population and young people in employment.”
Ms Kane has been contacted for comment but has not yet responded.
