An estate in the north west of Skye is to be divided up and sold, after Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) announced plans for a phased exit from its ownership of Orbost Estate.
The regional development agency said yesterday it had always been its plan to sell the estate in order for further community development to take place, and to provide long-term community and economic benefits.
HIE bought the 5,775-acre estate in 1997 hoping to stimulate the local economy and encourage resettlement by providing access to land and affordable housing, it has now decided for it to grow further it must be put into the hands of the community.
At present it now comprises a 4,176-acre farm, six small holdings, two workshops and 1,512 acres of forestry. All of these are under active management. It is understood a community-buy out is the preferred option for a large swathe of forestry on the land.
Local and Proud: Follow our new Facebook page dedicated to the Highlands and Islands
Plans include offering the farm and farmhouse for sale to the tenant and converting the smallholdings into six new crofts, which would also be offered for sale to the current tenants.
The HIE-owned housing would likewise be offered for sale, either to occupants or to the housing association.
Twelve people in five families now get at least part of their income from commercial activity on the estate.
Robert Muir, HIE’s Lochaber, Skye and Wester Ross area manager, said: “We’ve kept our ownership of Orbost estate under regular review.
“There has been considerable progress in deriving benefits from the estate, particularly access to land for farming and crofting and workshop space for commercial enterprises. New affordable housing has been provided with potential for more.
“With the estate now in a much stronger position, we feel this is the time for HIE to begin a phased exit.
“This will be done in a way that protects tenants and the progress made so far and enables continuation of community and economic benefits long into the future.
“We have briefed tenants of the estate about the plans. We have also consulted partner agencies about the forestry proposals and written to community groups who may be interested in taking this on.
“It is important that Orbost continues to contribute to the local economy and the resilience of the community.”