A groundbreaking woodland creation project in the Scottish Borders has seen advanced drone technology deployed to seed over two million native trees across inaccessible upland areas.
For the first time in the UK, heavy lift drones have been licensed to operate to beyond the line of sight while dispersing pelleted tree seeds in remote areas in the hills surrounding Talla Reservoir as part of a Scottish Water project to help protect water quality at the site.
Forming part of an envisaged 80-hectare woodland creation scheme on land surrounding the reservoir, the first drone seeding phase focused on a 20-hectare area where the publicly-owned utility company hopes to enrich existing woodland across the upper slopes of the catchment.
Working with delivery partner Bell Ingram and stakeholders, proposals for the Talla Water Woods project could additionally see thousands of native broadleaves such as aspen, rowan, oak, alder and downy birch planted at the site towards the south eastern end of the reservoir, as well as establishing montane woodland in the higher altitude areas of the site.
The aim is to help stabilise the soil surrounding the reservoir so that less organic matter is washed into the water during periods of extreme rainfall which are increasing in frequency due to climate change. This will make the treatment process simpler and less energy intensive.
Woodland creation programme manager at Scottish Water, Stephen Garbett, said: “This is a completely innovative approach to woodland creation and we are really excited to be working with Bell Ingram and AutoSpray Systems to make use of this cutting edge technology at Talla Reservoir.
“The nature of the landscape here means that traditional methods of tree planting would be extremely difficult and time consuming to carry out so to be able to harness this drone technology to effectively open up areas of the site like this is great. We are looking forward to seeing the results now that the first phase of drone seeding has been completed.”
Climate Action Secretary Gillian Martin said: “Our forests and woodlands are a natural powerhouse, and one of the most important resources we have to tackle the climate and nature emergencies. I welcome this initiative from Scottish Water which will help to create new woodland – helping to increase local biodiversity, whilst creating a natural way to reduce flooding in the area.”
Sam Guthrie, Forest Manager at Bell Ingram said: “This pioneering project involves planting 2.1 million native tree seeds using novel drone and seed pelletisation technology, supporting Scottish Water’s net zero ambitions and woodland creation goals.
“We are proud to deliver Scotland’s first drone-sown upland native woodland with approval to operate a drone ‘Beyond Visual Line of Sight’, combining cutting-edge innovation with best-practice forestry and strong environmental stewardship.
“Through projects like Talla Water Woods, the team is setting new standards for sustainable woodland creation, maximising outcomes for both climate and client.”
Industry leading drone company AutoSpray Systems carried out the work. CEO Rob Pearson said: “We at AutoSpray Systems are excited and proud to be delivering this project with Scottish Water. It’s a pioneering operation, harnessing drone technology to sow 2.1 million native seeds on challenging terrain, a significant step forward for the UK forestry sector.
“We hope the woodland will be a powerful demonstration of how innovation and technology can be harnessed to support conservation and environmental projects.”
The Talla project builds on the back of other local initiatives such as Talla and Gameshope to the south of the reservoir owned by the Borders Forest Trust, helping to link up habitats and create wildlife corridors as part of the Wild Heart Expansion Project, which has significant benefits for biodiversity.
A total of 55 hectares of the scheme could be made up of montane woodland, making it one of the largest montane schemes in the Southern Uplands. The important habitat has almost vanished in Scotland due to grazing by red deer and sheep and will have a positive impact on biodiversity and flood mitigation in the area.
How will the ‘Mansion Tax’ affect Scotland?
By Carl Warden, Head of Estate Agency
The recent UK Autumn Budget, delivered by Chancellor Rachel Reeves, introduced several notable changes, though their direct impact on Scotland remains unclear.
Despite weeks of speculation, the Chancellor’s statement confirmed that Stamp Duty and local housing allowance rates in England will remain frozen. However, the Budget did advance plans for a ‘Mansion Tax’ on properties valued above £2,000,000, alongside increases in property income tax and the national minimum wage.
Attention now turns to the Scottish Budget, due on 13 January 2026, which should provide greater clarity. While it may seem that the Mansion Tax will not apply north of the border, history suggests the Scottish Government could introduce its own version with different thresholds, reflecting Scotland’s distinct property market. For instance, property values vary significantly between jurisdictions, making the choice of threshold critical.
Current research indicates fewer than 1,000 properties in Scotland exceed £2,000,000 in value. However, if the threshold were lowered to £1,000,000, approximately 11,500 properties would fall within scope. With a minimum surcharge of £2,500 per annum, this could generate an estimated £28.3 million in additional revenue.
In summary, while the UK Autumn Budget sets the tone for fiscal policy, Scotland’s property market faces its own uncertainties.
The forthcoming Scottish Budget will be pivotal in shaping the landscape for homeowners and investors alike. Whether through a Mansion Tax or other measures, any changes could have far-reaching implications for property values, investment strategies, and overall market confidence.
For now, the sector remains in a holding pattern, awaiting decisions that could redefine the cost of owning high-value homes in Scotland.
For help with your next move in Scotland contact Carl Warden on carl.warden@bellingram.co.uk or 01738 621 121.
A Peaceful Highland Retreat Set Amid 1.92 Acres of Mature Gardens
Tandara at Wester Phoineas offers a rare opportunity to enjoy true peace and quiet in the heart of the Highlands.
This charming detached bungalow, now on the market with Bell Ingram for offers over £500,000, sits within beautifully maintained, mature garden grounds extending to about 1.92 acres – the perfect setting for a private rural retreat.
Nestled in the small hamlet of Wester Phoineas, Tandara enjoys a tranquil, traditional Highland atmosphere, surrounded by working farms, family homes, and open countryside. Although wonderfully secluded, the property is only a few miles southwest of Beauly, where you’ll find shops, cafés, and everyday amenities. Beauly itself is around 12 miles west of Inverness and benefits from a train station, providing convenient connections while preserving its peaceful village feel.
Designed for comfort and relaxation, Tandara offers approximately 214 sqm of well-laid-out accommodation. The spacious lounge flows into a large conservatory, creating a bright and calming space to sit and enjoy the garden and countryside views in all seasons. A formal dining room, well-appointed kitchen, and utility room offer practical everyday living, while four bedrooms, an integral single garage, and a detached double garage provide flexibility for family, guests, or hobbies.
The setting is rich in natural beauty and quiet charm. The wider area is steeped in history, with Beauly Priory, Beaufort Castle, and Moniack Castle all nearby, offering peaceful walks and days out amid some of the Highlands’ most evocative scenery. This is an ideal location for those seeking a slower pace of life, surrounded by landscape, heritage, and fresh air.
The gardens at Tandara are a particular highlight and truly enhance its retreat-like feel. Thoughtfully tended over the years, they feature native trees, colourful flower beds, shrubs, a productive vegetable garden, a feature pond, and a timber summer house – a lovely spot for reading, relaxing, or quiet entertaining. The grounds are private and serene, with far-reaching views over the surrounding fields to the hills beyond, creating a sense of space and escape.
Estate Agent Joanne Stennett comments:
“Tandara sits within beautiful, mature grounds and provides a serene and private retreat. It’s the perfect location for anyone seeking a comfortable home surrounded by natural beauty.”
For more information, or to arrange a viewing, please contact Joanne Stennett on 01463 717799.
Rare opportunity to own a croft cottage in the heart of the Isle of Lewis
Gunn Croft combines traditional features with modern comfort, offering breathtaking views over the scenic Lochs area.
Life on the Isle of Lewis is often described as peaceful, community-oriented, and deeply connected to nature and tradition. It is well known for its dramatic landscapes, rugged coastlines, sandy beaches, moorlands, and countless lochs. The area is rich in birdlife and marine life, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.
Gunn Croft, on the market for offers over is a beautifully presented, detached former croft cottage that blends traditional character with contemporary style. Tastefully decorated throughout with a mix of neutral and bold tones, the property has laminate flooring, full double glazing, and oil-fired central heating.
Accessed primarily from the rear, the home opens into a modern kitchen fitted with sleek white units and granite-effect work surfaces. From the hall, is access a good sized double bedroom, a well-appointed bathroom, and a cosy sitting room. The sitting room has a wood-burning stove set on a tiled hearth, complemented by a tiled surround and mantle.
A short hallway leads to a single bedroom with stunning views over Loch Erisort and South Lochs, as well as a built-in storage cupboard. The back door opens to a fully grassed area, perfect for outdoor enjoyment.
The village of Balallan is a traditional crofting community. Nearby amenities include the Kinloch Historical Society and Community Hub, offering cultural activities, a café, charity shop, laundrette, and EV charging points. The nearest shop is at Kershader, approximately 6 miles away. Primary schooling is available at Pairc Primary School with secondary schooling in Stornoway. Stornoway, the main town on the island, provides excellent facilities including supermarkets, hospital, cafés, bars, and restaurants. Stornoway airport has flights to major cities and there are regular ferry sailings to Ullapool and a ferry service at Tarbert to Uig in Skye.
Estate Agent Joanne Stennett, comments:
“Gunn Croft is in one of the most scenic and tranquil parts of the Isle of Lewis. With its tasteful décor, modern amenities, and stunning views, this home is ideal for those seeking an island lifestyle surrounded by natural beauty.”
For more information, or to arrange a viewing, contact Joanne Stennett on 01463 717799.
Bell Ingram Recognised as an Exemplary Employer for Carers
Bell Ingram is delighted to announce it has been recognised as a Carer Positive Exemplary organisation, the highest award offered by Carers Scotland.
The Carer Positive Exemplary award is presented to employers in Scotland who have a working environment where carers are valued and supported.
Carer Positive employers recognise the importance of supporting carers in their workforce through flexible working policies or with simple, practical measures which can make a big difference. This helps with retaining experienced members of staff, reducing absence, and cutting down on avoidable recruitment costs.
Bell Ingram supports its carers through dedicated carer’s leave, flexible working, one hour a week for admin tasks, and our Carer’s Forum which meets regularly for employees to share practical tips about how to balance work and caring responsibilities, as well as a safe space to share some of the harder moments of life as a carer to a loved one.
HR Manager, Kirsty Watson said: “People are at the heart of Bell Ingram and as an employer we are committed to supporting our team in all aspects of their lives. We have several carers already in the organisation who benefit from our supportive working environment. We look forward to working with Carers Scotland on how we can further improve life at Bell Ingram for our employees with caring responsibilities.”
Hayley Burton, Senior Employment Manager at Carers Scotland, who presented the award to Bell Ingram at its staff conference, congratulated Bell Ingram: “It has been fantastic to read about the support you have in place for carers across the organisation, how you support employees, and particularly those in rural areas where access to support and services can be more challenging and pose an additional barrier to caring.”
Scotland’s New Land Reform Bill: A Step Too Far for the Rural Economy?
The Scottish Government has passed a new Land Reform Bill that could see the enforced break-up of some of Scotland’s largest rural estates. The legislation aims to tackle the concentration of land ownership and increase community involvement in decisions about privately owned land.
Under the Bill, estates defined as Large Landholdings – generally those exceeding 1,000 hectares (though this threshold may yet change) – will face several new obligations, including:
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Land Management Plans: Owners must prepare a plan and consult local communities on its content.
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Ministerial Notification: Scottish Ministers must be notified before any Large Landholding is put up for sale.
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Community Purchase Rights: Community bodies will have enhanced rights to buy land when a Large Landholding is sold.
- Lotting Requirements: Before a sale, Ministers may require the estate to be divided into smaller parcels or “lots.”
The Bill has faced strong criticism across Scotland’s rural sector. Sarah-Jane Laing, Chief Executive of Scottish Land & Estates, commented that “this legislation has succeeded in uniting landowners, land reform campaigners, lawyers, property agents and accountants – all of whom recognise that, whatever your stance on land reform, this is junk law.” She added that many provisions are so poorly drafted that they may take years to implement, if ever.
At Bell Ingram, we remain committed to guiding our clients through the complexities of this new legislation once it takes effect. The changes will undoubtedly bring significant challenges. New expectations around land management plans, community engagement, and the potential for enforced lotting will require considerable time, resources, and adaptability.
While the goal of empowering communities is understandable, the Government’s increasing involvement in the highly technical and specialist process of land sales risks undermining Scotland’s rural economy. Effective land management demands expertise, flexibility, and long-term planning – qualities best achieved through collaboration, not bureaucracy.
Meet the Farm Sales Team: Catherine Lawson MRICS
Accurate, informed appraisals are at the heart of every farm sale – and that’s where Catherine Lawson MRICS FAAV, at Bell Ingram, comes in.
Based in Angus, Catherine brings both professional expertise and first-hand farming knowledge to her role, making her a trusted adviser to farming families and landowners alike.
Catherine’s strong background in agriculture runs deep. Having grown up on a farm in Yorkshire and now living on a working farm in Angus, she understands the realities of running a successful farming business. This unique perspective means she appreciates not just the numbers behind an appraisal but also the day-to-day challenges and opportunities that shape farming life.
An experienced valuer, Catherine can also advise on all aspects of farm Red Book valuations, ensuring clients have the clarity and confidence they need to make informed decisions. Whether for succession planning, tax, or secured lending purposes, her insight helps clients see the full picture and plan effectively for the future.
Clients value Catherine’s approachable style and practical guidance, as well as her ability to translate complex details into clear, straightforward advice. She knows how important these decisions are, and she takes pride in offering a service that is both professional and personal.
Contact Catherine on 01307 462516 or email catherine.lawson@bellingram.co.uk to discuss your farm sale.
Bell Ingram celebrates another perfect score in 2025 Achilles Audit
Bell Ingram is proud to announce that it has once again achieved an outstanding 100% score in the 2025 Achilles Audit, reaffirming our ongoing commitment to excellence across all areas of our business.
The Achilles Audits are independent assessments that rigorously evaluate an organisation’s management systems to ensure they meet stringent standards. Achieving a perfect score validates Bell Ingram’s capability, competence, and compliance as a trusted supplier organisation, reinforcing our reputation as a reliable, responsible, and forward-thinking partner.
This year’s auditor praised Bell Ingram for its exceptional people-focused culture, noting:
“The company’s approach to integrating new staff through the use of the designated buddy system is commendable and reflects best practice in supporting employee wellbeing. The company is commended for the comprehensive mental health and wellbeing support available to staff.”
Commenting on the success, Samantha McDonald, Bell Ingram’s Compliance Manager, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to have maintained our 100% rating through Achilles for another year. This result highlights our continued commitment to the highest possible standards of health & safety, quality assurance, and sustainability. It also reflects our dedication to supporting our people and communities through robust environmental and corporate social responsibility policies.
“The outcome is a real credit to our teams who consistently uphold these high standards in everything we do.”
Health and Safety Partner, James Petty added: “A fantastic achievement once again – testament to Sam’s leadership and the hard work of everyone involved. Congratulations to the entire team.”
Learn more about Achilles and their work at achilles.com.
Own Your Own Private Island on the Shores of Loch Torridon
A rare chance to own a private island in the Scottish Highlands has come to market, offering buyers the ultimate retreat in one of the country’s most breathtaking natural settings.
Camus-An-Eilean, near Arrina in Strathcarron, is on the market at offers over £550,000 through Highland estate agents, Bell Ingram. The sale includes a traditional four-bedroom stone cottage, several outbuildings, over nine acres of land, and the remarkable addition of Eilean Mor, a 7.42-acre private island set within the pristine waters of Loch Torridon.
The C-listed cottage, built in traditional Highland style with stone walls and a slate roof, sits amid grassland and native trees. It offers panoramic views across the loch and surrounding mountains and includes direct shore access with a jetty and shingle beach.
Three outbuildings on the site offer potential for conversion or development (subject to consents), while the main house retains much of its original character, with wood-burning stoves, original fireplaces, and hardwood detailing throughout.
Joanne Stennett, who is handling the sale for Bell Ingram, said:
“Camus-An-Eilean is a truly exceptional property, offering the chance to own a traditional Highland home and a private island. It’s an idyllic escape where you can immerse yourself in the natural beauty and tranquillity of the Highlands.”
Eilean Mor is a rugged and unspoiled island teeming with birdlife and native flora – a haven for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Set within the Northwest Highlands, the property offers the perfect combination of privacy, beauty and opportunity – a rare chance to own a home and an island in one of Scotland’s most iconic landscapes.
For more information on Camus-An-Eilean, or to arrange a viewing, contact our Beauly office on 01463 717 799 or email highland@bellingram.co.uk.