Scottish conservationists have announced a significant new project aimed at rewilding after the Scottish Wildlife Trust (SWT) acquired the Inverbroom estate near Ullapool in north-west Scotland, thanks to a generous donation exceeding £17.5 million from an anonymous benefactor. This acquisition marks the largest single gift the trust has received and is speculated to be one of the most substantial donations made to a conservation body in the UK.

The estate, which spans 7,618 hectares, includes an 11-bedroom lodge complete with an indoor swimming pool, and is known for its stunning geographical features, including the peak Sgùrr Breac that rises to 999 metres (3,277 feet). Historically, the estate has ties to the Forth Bridge, as it was previously owned by Sir John Fowler, the chief engineer responsible for the iconic structure. In 1870, Fowler erected two significant bridges on the property—one of which is an elaborate A-listed wrought iron bridge across the River Broom.

Jo Pike, the chief executive of SWT, indicated that the estate will serve as a model for rewilding initiatives in the region. The organisation’s plans include the creation of new Atlantic rainforest and the restoration of riverside woodlands and degraded peatlands. Pike highlighted the potential for nature restoration to provide benefits both for the environment and local communities, stating, “We see so many possibilities for nature restoration, which bring together benefits for nature with benefits for people.”

As part of the rewilding effort, SWT plans to end practices such as deer stalking and grouse shooting on the estate. These activities have raised concerns among conservationists regarding the impact of Scotland’s increasing deer populations, which are blamed for overgrazing and hindering the natural regrowth of native woodland and shrubs. Recognising the challenges posed by deer overpopulation, Pike noted, “Deer management is going to be a really important priority.” Although professional management of deer will be implemented, locals may be permitted to hunt on a temporary basis in the future.

In an economic aspect, the Victorian-era lodge on the estate, originally built on the site of a late medieval courthouse, is set to be transformed into a holiday let as a means to generate revenue for ongoing conservation efforts. Additionally, the SWT intends to explore other funding avenues, such as grants from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, to assist with the regeneration of peatland and woodlands. The anonymous benefactor who provided the acquisition funds has also contributed towards operational costs for the initial years, while any surplus will go towards an endowment to support future maintenance and conservation work.

This development reflects a growing trend in Scotland where conservation charities and community land buyouts are engaging in luxury tourism to finance their efforts. For instance, the Assynt Foundation, which acquired land from the Vestey family in 2005, has partnered with a hotel group to operate the Glencanisp Lodge as a boutique hotel.

However, the acquisition raises questions among some observers. Land reform campaigner Andy Wightman expressed concern that SWT’s move appears misaligned with its core mission of managing small nature reserves. He remarked, “It’s a risky business taking on an estate of this scale,” advocating for a shift in conservation strategy towards effective public policy for land restoration without the need for acquisition by conservation bodies.

Source: Noah Wire Services