08 November, 2019
SNH decision on Kinloch Castle asset transfer request announced
Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) has announced its decision against the asset transfer request by Kinloch Castle Friends Association (KCFA) today.
Nick Halfhide, SNH’s Director of Sustainable Growth, said:
“Scottish Natural Heritage has reached a decision to refuse the asset transfer request from Kinloch Castle Friends Association (KCFA) for ownership of Kinloch Castle. Having carefully considered all the evidence presented, we concluded that the merits of the request fell short of the necessary requirements for a successful asset transfer application.
“We ensured that the assessment process was not only thorough and fair, but also transparent and the full decision and papers will be made available on our website.
“The benefits of any asset transfer application are considered against the criteria set out in the National Outcomes, Best Value themes and guidance. Consideration is given to a range of outcomes, including tackling inequalities, supporting strong and resilient communities, and demonstrating value to the relevant authority in existing use, and also the value for proposed and other community purposes.
“KCFA carries out a range of important work and we fully understand that they will be disappointed by this decision. We hope that it does not discourage them from engaging with SNH and partner organisations which are looking to secure the best interests for the castle.”
For more information, see the decision notice on the SNH website at http://bit.ly/2Q1egdw
ENDS
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Notes to editors
SNH acquired Kinloch Castle in 1957 when the Nature Conservancy Council purchased the Island of Rum as a National Nature Reserve from its original owners – the Bullough family. Previously, the castle was used as a hotel, bar/bistro and hostel and continues to be a visitor attraction, with castle tours during the summer season. The hostel closed in 2015 and since then SNH has had no operational need for the building.
NatureScot is Scotland's nature agency. Responding to the twin crises of biodiversity loss and climate change, we work to protect and restore nature by inspiring everyone to value our natural world. Our goal is a nature-rich, net-zero future for Scotland. For more information, visit our website at www.nature.scot
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