Land Management Case Studies

South Ardnaclach – Argyll & Bute

South Ardnaclach – Argyll & Bute

A phased restoration programme to reinstate farming on the land

Brief

A small unit in Appin – which is part of an estate managed by Bell Ingram in Argyll – required substantial upgrading work to bring it back to a condition to enable it to be let out to new tenants. The land had previously been subject to a long-term secure tenancy and was taken back in hand. After a thorough inspection of the farm, it became apparent that the unit was in an extremely poor state of repair – the fixed equipment was well past its sell-by-date, fences were dilapidated, ditches and drains blocked.

Process

Bell Ingram’s land managers implemented a phased programme of works to bring the land back into a useable condition. Phase one involved the clearance of all ditches to ensure they were running – very important in this environment. Phase two was the replacement of the march fences, to make the unit stock-proof. Finally, phase three has been the removal of all redundant and superfluous internal fences and the replacement of new internal fences.

Outcome

The wind farm was constructed between 2017 and 2018 and during construction Bell Ingram assisted clients over issues rising during the construction phase, including measuring quantities of stone and sand extracted from over 10 borrow pits and dealing with other construction matters. The windfarm of over 220MW capacity, successfully started exporting electricity in March 2018.

Article posted on 09/04/2018

Commercial, Conservation, Design Case Studies

Marshall Monument | Perth & Kinross Council

Marshall Monument Refurbishment

Historic city centre project to replace copper and cupola on landmark building in Perth’s Cultural Quarter.

Brief

Perth and Kinross Council instructed Bell Ingram Design to replace the failing copper skin and cupola on the Grade B Listed Marshall Monument, which is part of Perth Museum and Art Gallery. The internal cast iron structure needed refurbishment, and the inside and outside of the Marshall Monument required re-decorating. Management of a city centre site where the boundary is the physical edge of the building required detailed planning of the construction process with strict constraints placed on the contractor in terms of site compound, deliveries and security.

Process

To avoid negative press for our client, the existing copper was replaced with a pre-patinated copper sheet matching the colour of the copper sheeting which was removed, and the cupola was completely replaced with a new steel structure and glazing to provide adequate ventilation as well as a water tight skin. The internal cast iron structure was completely stripped back by hand and treated with anti-corrosion coatings. New floors were constructed within the actual dome to provide easier access for future maintenance and repairs.

Outcome

The project was successfully completed on time and within budget, and despite the difficult site restraints, with no complaints received from local residents or businesses. This was particularly important to the client as the Marshall Monument is a much-loved Perth landmark, and all aspects of the construction work came under close scrutiny from public, press and business community. 

Testimonial

“Bell Ingram has worked for Perth and Kinross Council for a number of years. The quality of professional services and technical competence has always been to a very high standard.” –  Alistair Cummings , Perth and Kinross Council, Maintenance and Projects Officer.

Our people

Iain Cram

Iain Cram

Architect
Design
Tel: 01738 621 121

About: Iain is Partner in charge of Bell Ingram Design. His main role is working with clients on projects from the initial concept, through site searches, funding challenges and statutory consents. He's an experienced and talented architect with a long track record, working on a diverse range of projects from small scale residential through to large public, commercial, residential and tourism builds. Interests: Architecture, Building Surveying, Trustee of the Scottish Lime Centre, a highly respected historic building skills training centre.

Get in touch

We'd love to hear from you, use the form below to email me direct

    Article posted on 01/04/2018

    Press Release Archive News

    Land Agent Catherine Lawson urges young farmers to see industry bigger picture

    Land Agent Catherine Lawson urges young farmers to see industry bigger picture

    It’s vitally important that young farmers ‘look beyond the farm gate and step out from behind computers’, according to leading rural experts

    Catherine Lawson, Land Agent at Bell Ingram, feels young people need to see the bigger picture to make use of all opportunities within the agriculture sector.

    Following her attendance at the prestigious Oxford Faming Conference (OFC), which ran from January 3-5, Catherine – a farmer’s daughter herself from Yorkshire – feels farmers need to adapt to the changing landscape.

    She said: “Young people are the future of the industry. We need to have as much knowledge as possible in order to gain experience and understanding of a changing industry.

    “It’s important that you look beyond your farm gate or computer and see the bigger picture so you can grow and expand both professionally and personally.

    “While it is important not to always do something just because someone else is doing it, you also need to know what opportunities are available and keep up-to-date with what is happening in the industry in a wider context.

    “I think we are a generation that is going to see a lot of change in the industry within our lifetime and, by broadening our knowledge, it will enable us to embrace those changes – whatever they may be.”

    The Oxford Farming Conference (OFC) is an annual conference for UK farmers that takes place every year and allows the farming community to discuss and exchange ideas.

    Catherine believes the event is a great way to discover how fellow farmers are preparing for the year ahead.

    She continued: “The event gave me the opportunity to meet new contacts and listen to some very inspiring and engaging presentations.

    “I have come back to the office with a more realistic and also positive insight into the future of the agricultural industry.

    “While I am under no illusion that the next few years won’t be without their challenges, I feel much more prepared for what may be ahead. It has reminded me how fortunate I am to work in the industry.”

    OFC is a charity with a remit to educate and transfer knowledge in the agricultural sector, with the mission to ‘Inform, Challenge and Inspire’. For more information on the annual conference, visit https://www.ofc.org.uk.

    Our people

    Catherine Lawson

    Catherine Lawson

    Senior Associate, MRICS FAAV
    Rural Land Management, Valuations
    Tel: 01307 462 516

    About: Catherine is a highly qualified RICS Chartered Surveyor and Registered Valuer working across Perthshire and Angus advising on all aspects of rural estate management, farm management, residential property management and lettings. She joined Bell Ingram in 2014 working in the Perth office before moving to the Forfar office in 2019. As a farmer’s daughter from Yorkshire and now living on a farm in Angus, along with a degree in rural tourism management, Catherine can offer assistance on a variety or rural matters. Interests: Lettings, Rural Land Management, Tourism.

    Get in touch

    We'd love to hear from you, use the form below to email me direct

      Article posted on 28/02/2018

      Press Release Archive News, The Bell Ingram Blog Spot News

      All you need to know about electric vehicles

      Now is the time to spark your interest in electric vehicles

      Ditching your petrol or diesel car in favour of an electric alternative could make you significant savings with the help of Government incentives.

      According to experts, the cost of owning an electric vehicle (EV) even without this support is set to come in line with that of traditional fuel-driven cars by 2025.

      By purchasing an EV now, drivers can take advantage of both the incentives and very low running costs and enjoy the near-silent power and extended ranges of the latest models.

      Joe Fergusson, Microgeneration Consultant at Bell Ingram, is a specialist in the sector and has developed a methodology for auditing the use of vehicles of all kinds, from quad bikes and cars to delivery vehicles, thereby illustrating the feasibility of substituting EVs.

      He said: “The time is right for those whose vehicle use patterns match certain criteria relating to daily mileage and payload requirements to join the electric revolution.

      “It’s projected that the total cost of ownership of new EVs will match those of equivalent internal combustion engine vehicles by about 2025. By then the financial incentives offered now should no longer be required.

      “At the moment grants to dealers of £4,500 (£2,500 for hybrid EVs) for the growing list of eligible vehicles and, in Scotland, interest-free loans to purchasers, plus subsidised electricity at most public charge points in Scotland and grant-assisted charge point installation, will bridge the gap for many.”

      At the end of 2017 Scotland had over 900 public, free-to-use charging bays, although over 95% of all charging is reported to take place at home overnight.

      Around £80m was recently allocated to support the expansion of the UK’s charge point infrastructure, with £7.8m offered to businesses to get chargers installed in their car parks, depots, farmyards and homes.

      By making the switch to EVs drivers can massively reduce their running costs, to around 3-5p compared to 10-20p per mile, as well as providing cheaper servicing, protection from future air-quality-related tolls, tax incentives on purchase and benefits-in-kind and zero road tax. Owning an EV will also reduce poisonous emissions in built-up areas and your carbon footprint.

      However, alongside the benefits of battery-fuelled vehicles Joe believes that there are some concerns about the demands on the National Grid.

      He said: “There are fears about the National Grid not being able to cope with charging demand as EV numbers rise. However, these are probably unfounded and in time the combined battery capacity of the nation’s fleet of EVs will become an integral and crucial part of the power grid.

      “The daily consumption of most EVs will be between 4 to 20kWh whilst having about 50kWh of battery capacity, so with plenty to spare to top up the grid through short bursts of peak demand. A premium tariff will be paid to EV owners for providing this facility. 

      “Some electricity suppliers are now also offering special lower supply tariffs to users of EVs. Other technologies such as hydrogen-fuelled fuel cell vehicles and wireless charging will tweak the landscape over time but anyone buying a current-model EV should not be disappointed.”

      Our people

      Joe Fergusson

      Joe Fergusson

      Consultant
      Microgeneration
      Tel: 01292 886 544

      About: Joe has more than 20 years’ experience advising private and corporate clients on all aspects of renewable energy systems. From pre-feasibility advice to project management, his remit includes hydro, biomass, wind, heat pumps, solar, biogas, battery storage, electric vehicle charging, heat networks and combined heat and power. Joe also has a broad knowledge of sustainable building design. Appointed in 2002 as Scotland’s first Community Renewables Development Officer, he developed the Scottish Community & Householder Renewables Initiative (SCHRI) in South West Scotland, reporting to the Energy Saving Trust. Joe is a qualified National Home Energy Rating surveyor with a broad and deep knowledge of building-scale renewable energy systems and grant support schemes. Interests: Low Impact Building Design, Renewable Energy, Sustainable Development.

      Get in touch

      We'd love to hear from you, use the form below to email me direct

        Article posted on 29/01/2018

        Press Release Archive News, The Bell Ingram Blog Spot News

        Brexit could result in shift towards organic products says Head of Land Management

        Brexit could result in more Scottish farmers switching their attention towards organic production

        Brexit could result in more Scottish farmers switching their attention towards organic production, according to a leading land expert Malcolm Taylor.

        Malcolm Taylor, Head of Land Management at Bell Ingram, believes that continuing uncertainty caused by the Brexit vote, coupled with the likely elevated environmental constraints introduced post-EU breakup, will make organic farming a more attractive option.

        He feels that the growing evidence of consumer-led demand for organic and ‘superfood’ products will lead to more farmers focussing on the attractions of organic production.

        Malcolm said: “There is no secret that organic farming is not for everybody, but with Brexit uncertainty, budget cuts and pressure on inputs, there might be an opportunity for increased organic production.

        “There has already been a rapid growth in the establishment of blueberries in Angus, which reflects the interest in so called super fruits and healthy living.

        “I am not advocating a complete swing to alternative production but with careful marketing, it might be that there is an expanding niche for organic production.”

        Malcolm recently spent two weeks in Minnesota, and explored how other farmers employed different techniques in their areas.

        Organic sales in Minnesota rank ninth in the US, with huge growth in the sector which is reflected across the country.

        Back across the pond, in the UK, sales of organic foods grew by 7.1 percent in September.

        The growing trend for health foods, coupled with the fact that farmers are likely to have to pay far more attention to environmental issues to qualify for subsidies post-Brexit, mean that many may consider cultivating organic produce.

        Water quality rules are likely to become stricter, so a reduction in fertiliser and sprays will make organic production a more attractive option. In addition, good sward management will be the key to profitable cattle and sheep finishing.Malcolm continued: “Cost control is going to be ever more important post-Brexit.

        “We are going to have to be more creative and adventurous, and if organic production grows, who knows what might follow?

        “More free-range poultry and pigs, GM crops, minimum tillage for crops? What is clear, is that we can’t do something simply because it’s always been done that way.

        “What Brexit has created is the drive for all of us to need to look at what we do and how and why we do it.”

        Our people

        Malcolm Taylor

        Malcolm Taylor

        Senior Partner, FRICS ACIArb
        Rural Land Management, Valuations
        Tel: 01307 462 516

        About: Malcolm is Bell Ingram's Senior Partner and heads up the company's Forfar office, where he specialises in farm and estate management, including the provision of agricultural rental advice and acting as an expert witness. He is the immediate past chairman of the RICS in Scotland and remains actively involved with the Institution. Malcolm is also head of Lettings within Bell Ingram. Interests: AMC Agent, Corporate Estate Management, Rural Land Management, SRDP Applications, FRICS Registered Valuer.

        Get in touch

        We'd love to hear from you, use the form below to email me direct

          Article posted on 09/01/2018

          Utilities Case Studies

          Expert Witness | Telecoms Valuation for Overhead Fibre Optic Cable

          Expert Witness – Telecoms Valuation for overhead fibre optic cable

           

          Brief

          Bell Ingram acted as Expert Witness on behalf of a client who operates a telecommunications cable that crosses third-party land as part of an existing overhead electricity transmission line. The landowner had referred the case to Court following a dispute regarding the quantum of consideration to be paid for the equipment and for injurious affection caused to the property.

          Process

          Bell Ingram was instructed to act as Expert Witness in a case heard at the County Court (Technology and Construction Division), providing specialist advice on the valuation of wayleave agreements and on the likelihood of any diminution in value to the property caused by the presence of the telecommunications equipment.

          Outcome

          Bell Ingram attended the Court Hearing and gave expert evidence. The case was decided in our client’s favour and in full accordance with the advice and evidence given by our Expert Witness. Case Reference: C50MA035.

          Article posted on 01/01/2018

          •  
          Press Release Archive News

          Traditional Tain farm for sale as a whole for offers over £250,000

          Traditional Tain farmhouse and land for sale at offers over £250,000

          Househunters seeking a tranquil country lifestyle with plentiful land and stunning views will find the perfect home in Bogbain Farm.

          The property is a spacious traditional three-bedroom farmhouse located in approximately 2.5 acres of grazing land set in beautiful countryside on the outskirts of Tain.

          Bogbain Farm is in need of some refurbishment but would make the ideal purchase for any DIY savvy buyer keen to make their personal mark on and transform a property into a dream family home. Set in stunning gardens, it would also make the perfect rural getaway for anyone seeking a secluded haven.

          Included in the sale are two large stores, extensive outbuildings and two paddocks all of which offer multiple opportunities and new projects.

          Subject to consents, the outbuildings offer development potential or could be altered for stabling. The two fields offer good grazing and would be ideal for horses or other livestock.

          Bogbain Farm is being marketed through Inverness-based land and estate agents Bell Ingram and is for sale as a whole for offers over £250,000.

          Joanne Stennett, of Bell Ingram’s Inverness office, said: “This unique property offers buyers the chance to purchase their dream farmhouse and truly personalise it.

          “There are endless opportunities within Bogbain Farm and, with the right consent in place, the two large stores could be expanded to make up part of the property. Alternatively, the multiple outbuildings could be renovated.

          “I highly recommend anyone who is in the market and looking for a new project to view the property and the beautiful land it is situated in as it truly is a dream family home in the making.”

          Our people

          Joanne Stennett

          Joanne Stennett

          Associate
          Estate Agency
          Tel: 01463 717 799

          About: Joanne heads up the Estate Agency team in our Beauly office and is focused on ensuring her clients have a positive experience when they list their property with Bell Ingram. From country houses to farms and estates, she has been marketing prime residential property in the Highlands and Islands for over 17 years. Joanne is well known in the local area, having developed excellent relationships with buyers and sellers. Interests: Residential Estate Agency, Rural Property Sales.

          Get in touch

          We'd love to hear from you, use the form below to email me direct

            Article posted on 05/09/2017

            Press Release Archive News

            A-listed historic castle with two private island for sale at offers over £3.75 million

            A-listed Scottish historic castle with two private island for sale at offers over £3.75 million

            An A-listed Scots baronial mansion which looks fit to feature in a Hollywood fairy tale blockbuster or period drama and comes complete with two islands is now on the market.

            Dating from 1902, Glenborrodale Castle is a five storey, 16 bedroom property set on the southern shore of the idyllic Ardnamurchan Peninsula, Lochaber in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.

            The castle is set in a vast 133 acres of land and the sale includes the Isle of Risga and Eilean an Feidh – meaning the new owner can take a boat trip to these uninhabited islands.

            The palatial property also boasts a beautiful feature staircase with marble steps, three expansive public rooms and a turret with panoramic views of Loch Sunart and the Isles of Carna and Oronsay.

            To add to the whole attractive package, it also comprises an adjoining tennis court, gym and sauna, games room, a boat house complete with jetty and staff accommodation, as well as having many beautiful original features including marble fireplaces, cornicing and sandstone arches.

            The property is on the market with Perth-based Chartered Surveyors, Land and Estate Agents Bell Ingram for offers over £3.75 million.

            Carl Warden, of Bell Ingram’s Perth office, said: “Scotland is famous for its castles but it’s rare that any come onto the open market – particularly one which also includes two unoccupied islands in the sale.

            “Glenborrodale has previously been run as a hotel and could continue to be used for this purpose or could equally make a romantic wedding venue, presenting the ideal business opportunity to the buyer. It would also make a stunning and unique private home.

            “As the fixtures and fittings of the castle are also included in the sale, it is in walk in condition and ready to go. We would encourage any interested buyers to organise a viewing as soon as possible, as this is a truly must-see property.”

            The Ardnamurchan Peninsula area offers some of the most outstanding coast line scenery together with an abundance of wildlife. Outdoor enthusiasts will also not be disappointed, as sailing, angling, kayaking and whale watching are just some of the activities on offer.

            Local amenities, including a primary school, doctor, dentists, shops and hotels, are available in the nearby villages of Saln and Acharacle. 

            Viewings are strictly by appointment only and can be arranged through Bell Ingram’s Perth office on 01738 621 121.

            Our people

            Carl Warden

            Carl Warden

            Partner
            Estate Agency
            Tel: 01738 621 121

            About: Carl heads up the Residential Estate Agency division for the company and has a proven track record within the Scottish property sector. He has been marketing property in the Perth and Kinross area for over 35 years and has vast and detailed practical experience and knowledge of selling prime residential property: from period homes to contemporary developments. Carl is well known in the local area, having developed excellent relationships with buyers and sellers. His wider role involves looking after and supporting our Agency teams and colleagues in Oban, Beauly, Ayr and Forfar. Interests: Estate Agency, Market Valuation, Negotiation.

            Get in touch

            We'd love to hear from you, use the form below to email me direct

              Article posted on 02/08/2017

              Press Release Archive News

              Stoer Lighthouse, designed by the father of Robert Louis Stevenson, is up for sale in Sutherland

              Stoer Lighthouse, designed by the father of Robert Louis Stevenson, is up for sale in Sutherland

              Those looking for the ultimate retreat – as well as a truly remote and historic living experience – need not look any further than the Stoer Lighthouse in Sutherland.

              Dating back to the 1870s, the lighthouse was designed by the father of Robert Louis Stevenson.

              But in addition to the famous historical connection, the property is nestled in one of the furthest most peninsulas of Assynt – with the nearest neighbour in a small scattering of crofts two kilometres away.

              Stoer Lighthouse – which was automated in 1978 – comprises of two two-bedroom apartments and an external bothy all within the walled grounds.

              The two apartments were renovated in 2015 and 2016 (they previously had no electricity) and offer the opportunity to continue the holiday letting business or to convert into a larger home in a stunning and unique location.

              Each apartment has fantastic views to the south and west and on a clear day it is even possible to Harris and Lewis, North and South Uist, and south to the Torridons and Skye.

              The property is currently on the market with Inverness-based Estate Agents and Surveyors Bell Ingram for offers over £371,500.

              Alternatively, each apartment can be bought separately, with the ground floor apartment available for offers over £175,000. The first floor apartment is on the market for offers over £170,000 and the external bothy for offers over £22,500.

              Joanne Stennett, of Bell Ingram’s Inverness office, said: “The property is ideal for those looking for a superb family home as an ultimate get away or a really brilliant holiday home.

              “But it also has tremendous potential for those looking for a business opportunity, providing a really stunning ‘look-out’ holiday rental accommodation.

              “The location is truly breath-taking, plus there is the chance to say you are living in a place built by Robert Louis Stevenson’s father.”

              Both apartments have two double bedrooms, bathroom, lounge, kitchen with dining area, and store room. The lounge is light and airy and has the original fireplace which houses an electric fire. The walled gardens offer further privacy and there is also a parking space for each of the apartments.

              The Bothy sits within the walls of the lighthouse and has an entrance hall, WC and one room which has a sink. It has electric heating and is ideal for backpackers or could be used as additional accommodation for guests.

              Stoerhead is also one of Scotland’s best places to spot whales, dolphins and porpoise, and if weather conditions permit, basking sharks can be seen during the warmer summer months.

              This section of Scotland’s West Coast has an abundance of activities perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, such as fishing, sea kayaking, walking and for keen climbers, the sea stack known as the ‘Old Man of Stoer’ is a stone’s throw away.

              Closer to hand there are fine views of Suilven, Canisp, and Stac Polly situated south of Lochinver.

              Viewings are strictly by appointment only and can be arranged through Bell Ingram’s Inverness office on 01463 717 799.

               

              Our people

              Joanne Stennett

              Joanne Stennett

              Associate
              Estate Agency
              Tel: 01463 717 799

              About: Joanne heads up the Estate Agency team in our Beauly office and is focused on ensuring her clients have a positive experience when they list their property with Bell Ingram. From country houses to farms and estates, she has been marketing prime residential property in the Highlands and Islands for over 17 years. Joanne is well known in the local area, having developed excellent relationships with buyers and sellers. Interests: Residential Estate Agency, Rural Property Sales.

              Get in touch

              We'd love to hear from you, use the form below to email me direct

                Article posted on 12/05/2017