Press Release Archive News

James Petty Helps Drive Salamander’s Offshore Wind Vision Forward

James Petty Helps Drive Salamander’s Offshore Wind Vision Forward

There’s nothing like a good site visit to bring a project to life – and that was very much the case when Aberdeen Partner James Petty recently joined the team behind the Salamander offshore wind project for a packed day on the ground. James even found himself in the spotlight, featuring in Salamander’s latest project newsletter following his involvement in a key site and supplier visit.

In his role as Land Agent, James met with the Salamander team at Lunderton to talk through plans for the onshore substation and its associated infrastructure. With his deep local knowledge, James brought valuable insight to the table – exactly the kind of collaboration needed to keep a complex renewable energy project moving smoothly forward.

The Lunderton visit formed part of a wider tour that took in Scotstown Beach, Peterhead and Aberdeen’s South Harbour. Along the way, the team explored local supply chain opportunities and the latest innovations shaping the offshore wind sector. These conversations highlight Salamander’s strong commitment to working with communities and partners as the project transitions from the consenting phase into technical delivery.

For those less familiar with the project, Salamander is a pioneering floating offshore wind development located off the northeast coast of Scotland. Its ambition? To accelerate Scotland’s renewable energy future, support local businesses and play a meaningful role in cutting carbon emissions.

This year alone has seen some major milestones, including securing seabed lease agreements and welcoming Odfjell Oceanwind as a new joint venture partner alongside Simply Blue Group and Subsea7. The adoption of Odfjell’s Deepsea Star™ foundation technology is expected to set new benchmarks for efficiency and sustainability in challenging marine environments.

James’ involvement reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting projects that are shaping the next generation of clean energy infrastructure. With Salamander targeting construction from 2026 onwards, it’s an exciting time for everyone involved – and we’ll be watching its progress with great interest.

Press Release Archive News, Residential

How will the ‘Mansion Tax’ affect Scotland?

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.

Press Release Archive News

New Recruits Strengthen Utilities Teams in Kendal and Northwich

New Recruits Strengthen Utilities Teams in Kendal & Northwich

Bell Ingram has strengthened its Utilities division with the appointment of six new staff members across its Kendal and Northwich offices. The expanded teams will ensure the firm continues to meet client commitments while driving new opportunities in the utilities and renewables sectors.

The new recruits bring a wealth of academic knowledge, practical experience, and fresh perspectives to the business:

  • Stephen McNally, Land Agent (Northwich): Stephen is an experienced Land Agent with over 13 years’ expertise in consenting overhead electricity distribution networks, FTTP broadband, and IoT telecommunications infrastructure. His career has seen him work extensively across the utilities and renewables sectors, delivering complex land access agreements, overseeing title deed verification, and managing stakeholder engagement from initial route planning through to reinstatement.
  • Malachi Fisher, Graduate Surveyor (Northwich): Malachi supports clients across Cumbria, with a particular focus on utilities and renewables. A First-Class Honours graduate in Agriculture from the Royal Agricultural University, he is now completing an MSc in Real Estate at the University of the Built Environment, working towards RICS accreditation.
  • Edward Ecroyd, Graduate Surveyor (Kendal): Edward joins the Kendal office, supporting clients across Cumbria. A graduate in Rural Land Management from the Royal Agricultural University, he brings both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience from working on agricultural and sporting estates in the Lake District. He is progressing through the RICS APC process via the Land & Resources pathway.
  • Jack Smith, Apprentice Surveyor (Northwich): Based in Northwich, Jack is studying Real Estate at the University of the Built Environment through their RICS-accredited apprenticeship programme. With a focus on utilities and renewables, Jack is committed to building his surveying career and will achieve MRICS status on completion of his apprenticeship.
  • Grace Cameron, Graduate Surveyor (Kendal): Grace has recently graduated with a BSc in Real Estate from Northumbria University. Now working towards becoming a chartered surveyor, she has a particular interest in the reuse of historic buildings, bringing both energy and a fresh perspective to the Kendal team.
  • Alan Smyth, Land Agent (Kendal): Alan brings significant experience in forestry, infrastructure, and agriculture to his new role. A graduate of the University of Central Lancashire with a BSc (Hons) in Forestry and Land Management, his career has included project management for national estates, senior leadership in vegetation contracts, and running a pedigree sheep enterprise in Cumbria. His breadth of expertise enhances the firm’s ability to deliver complex utilities projects.

Already, both Alan Smyth and Grace Cameron have delivered on challenging client deadlines and received excellent feedback, highlighting the immediate impact of the new cohort.

Commenting on the appointments, Neal Salomon, Partner in charge of Utilities and based in Northwich, said: “The utilities and renewables sectors are growing rapidly, and it’s vital we have the right people in place to support our clients’ evolving needs. These appointments strengthen our teams in Kendal and Northwich, ensuring we can deliver on our commitments while also exploring new opportunities across the North of England.”

Andrew Thompson, Senior Associate and head of the Kendal office, added: “It’s fantastic to welcome Edward, Grace, and Alan to Kendal. Each of them brings a unique mix of skills, energy, and local knowledge which will be invaluable to our clients. Their appointments demonstrate Bell Ingram’s ongoing investment in both experienced professionals and the next generation of surveyors.”

Operating across the north of England and Scotland, Bell Ingram’s Utilities teams act for all major utility companies in the UK. Their services span acquisitions and disposals, compulsory purchase, land referencing, wayleave agreements, compensation and claims, and expert witness work. The teams also provide GIS mapping, stakeholder engagement, and property advice – ensuring utility and infrastructure projects are delivered smoothly from planning to completion.

Press Release Archive News

Simon Hetherington Appointed Partner In Charge of Bell Ingram’s Morpeth Office

Simon Hetherington MRICS Appointed Partner In Charge of Bell Ingram’s Morpeth Office

Bell Ingram is pleased to announce the appointment of Simon Hetherington MRICS as Partner in charge of the firm’s Morpeth office, taking over from long-standing Partner Steve Parlett.

Simon brings more than 25 years of experience as a Rural Practice Chartered Surveyor and joins the firm with a strong track record in the infrastructure and utilities sectors – a key focus for Bell Ingram’s Morpeth office. His career includes senior roles with National Highways and private consultancy, delivering infrastructure projects, land acquisition strategies, estate rationalisation, and stakeholder engagement across the UK.

His background aligns closely with the Morpeth team’s ongoing work in the Pipelines and Utilities sector, where Bell Ingram provides specialist land and property services to infrastructure providers, utility companies, and landowners throughout the North East and beyond.

Simon says: “I’m pleased to be joining Bell Ingram and to take on the role of leading the Morpeth office. The firm has a long-standing reputation for excellence in rural and infrastructure property services, and I’m particularly excited to support and grow our utilities and pipelines offering across the region.”

Mark Mitchell, Managing Partner at Bell Ingram, adds: “We are delighted to welcome Simon to the partnership. His knowledge of infrastructure and utility-related property issues is an ideal fit for our Morpeth office’s continued growth in this area. We also want to thank Steve Parlett for his years of exceptional service as Partner. While he has retired from the Partnership, we’re very pleased that Steve will continue his association with the firm in a consultancy role.”

Simon will be based at Bell Ingram’s Morpeth office, leading the team as they continue to deliver high-quality consultancy services across the pipelines, utilities, and rural sectors.

  • Simon (centre) is pictured with Managing Partner Mark Mitchell (left) and Senior Partner Malcolm Taylor (right).

Press Release Archive News, Rural Land Management Page, The Bell Ingram Blog Spot News

Bell Ingram Appoints New Farm Management Consultant Richard Scrivener

Bell Ingram Appoints Richard Scrivener as Farm Management Consultant

Bell Ingram is delighted to announce the appointment of Richard Scrivener as Farm Management Consultant, based at the firm’s Perth headquarters.

Richard works across the organisation to provide farmers and landowners with strategic support and expert advice. His role is focused on helping clients to maximise efficiency, improve profitability, and achieve their long-term business objectives.

With academic credentials in both Sustainable Land Management (University of Cumbria) and Business Management (University of the Highlands and Islands), Richard combines a strong understanding of rural enterprise with a passion for sustainability and conservation. Alongside his professional work, he also runs his own conservation farm, specialising in rare and native goat breeds that are at risk of extinction.

Richard says: “I’m thrilled to be joining Bell Ingram and to have the opportunity to support farmers and landowners across Scotland. My focus is on delivering practical, sustainable solutions that help clients to grow their businesses while protecting and enhancing the land for future generations.”

Mark Mitchell, Managing Partner at Bell Ingram, adds: “Richard’s technical ability, business acumen and passion for conservation make him ideally placed to bolster our farm management offering. We’re confident that his addition will bring tangible benefit to our clients in delivering commercially successful and sustainable farming enterprises.”

As part of his consultancy role, Richard will:

  • Undertake farm business reviews and health checks, benchmarking performance and identifying opportunities for improvement.
  • Prepare investment appraisals, feasibility studies and risk analyses.
  • Advise on grant funding, subsidy applications, and environmental compliance.
  • Support farm diversification projects and new enterprise development.
  • Provide input on agronomy, livestock systems, crop rotations and nutrient management.
  • Oversee operational management and liaise with contractors where required.
  • Deliver regular reporting and performance monitoring to ensure businesses remain resilient and responsive to market conditions.
  • SAF advice and submission / help with rural payments.

For more information about Bell Ingram’s farm management services, please visit www.bellingram.co.uk

  • Richard is pictured above with Managing Partner Mark Mitchell.

Press Release Archive News

Exceptional Country Home with Development Potential Hits the Market

Exceptional Country Home with Development Potential Hits the Market

Bell Ingram is delighted to present The Old Sawmill, a distinctive country house set in over two acres of gardens and grounds in the peaceful hamlet of Moneydie, just north of Perth. This exceptional property is available for offers over £880,000, with an additional 3.5 acres of woodland available by separate negotiation.

Nestled in a tranquil rural setting west of Luncarty village, The Old Sawmill enjoys the best of both worlds – peaceful countryside living with swift access to the A9 and all the amenities of nearby Perth.

Completed in 2015, the property boasts a striking and thoughtfully designed layout, centred around a private internal courtyard accessible from multiple points within the home. Externally, it showcases Denfind natural stone, Siberian larch cladding, a pitched slate roof, and Nordan timber double-glazed windows and doors – combining quality craftsmanship with natural materials that blend beautifully into the surrounding landscape.

Inside, the home features expansive oak flooring and impressive 2.7-metre ceiling heights throughout. The standout main public room benefits from a dramatic vaulted ceiling, while high-quality fixtures and fittings are used throughout, including American white oak doors and facings.

The landscaped grounds extend to just over two acres, primarily laid to lawn with mature flower and shrub borders. Outbuildings include stables, kennels, and a large polytunnel with power and water supply. Full, in-perpetuity planning consent has been granted for the construction of two additional dwellinghouses – offering exciting development potential.

In addition, 3.5 acres of mature woodland are available via separate negotiation. Two paddocks with a field shelter, under separate ownership, are located adjacent to the property and may be available for lease from the neighbouring farmer.

The property benefits from mains electricity and water, supplemented by free-standing solar panels. Heating is provided via a ground source heat pump, and drainage is managed by a septic tank.

Estate Agent Carl Warden commented: “This is a truly unique home that blends beautifully into its rural surroundings. Its thoughtful design, additional development opportunities, and peaceful setting with easy access to Perth make it a standout property in the market.”

For further information or to arrange a viewing, contact Carl Warden 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

    Press Release Archive News

    Elegant Family Home with Spacious Gardens for Sale in the Heart of Kinross

    Elegant Family Home with Spacious Gardens for Sale in the Heart of Kinross

    Bell Ingram is pleased to present The Grey House, a beautifully appointed traditional family home set in a generous private garden, ideally located in the heart of the well-regarded county town of Kinross. The property is offered to the market for offers over £560,000.

    Built in 1926 and sympathetically extended in 2015, The Grey House now offers 239 m² of versatile living space, including three reception rooms, a spacious dining kitchen, and four bedrooms – two of which benefit from en suite facilities.

    A hallmark of this charming home is its elegant curved entrance vestibule, complete with a cloak cupboard, which leads into a welcoming reception hall. A stunning timber staircase ascends to a mid-landing, beautifully lit by a bay window that sits above the vestibule. Throughout the property, the craftsmanship of the restored woodwork – seen in the staircase, doors, and facings – leaves a lasting impression.

    The standout feature of the home is the impressive family room, which flows seamlessly from the large, well-equipped kitchen. Designed for modern living, this bright and inviting space features windows on three sides, flooding the room with natural light and offering stunning views over the expansive and secluded rear garden – perfect for relaxing or entertaining.

    Kinross is a thriving and picturesque town offering a wide range of local amenities including shops, restaurants, and professional services. It is also home to the Loch Leven Heritage Trail, a scenic 13-mile circular route that celebrates the area’s rich natural, cultural, and historical landscape. Kinross enjoys excellent transport links, making it a popular choice for families and commuters alike.

    Estate Agent Carl Warden commented: “The Grey House is a stunning family property in one of Kinross’s most desirable areas. It’s within walking distance of local schools and amenities, yet surrounded by green space and heritage. It offers the perfect balance of comfort, character, and convenience.”

    To find out more or to arrange a viewing, contact Carl Warden on 01738 621121.

     

    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

      Press Release Archive News, Rural Land Management Page

      Bell Ingram Announces Headline Sponsorship of Scotland’s Premier Country Sports Tourism Conference

      Bell Ingram Announces Headline Sponsorship of Scotland’s Premier Country Sports Tourism Conference

      Bell Ingram, a leading firm of rural chartered surveyors, is proud to announce its headline sponsorship of Scotland’s flagship Country Sports Tourism Conference.

      As a company dedicated to managing sporting estates across Scotland, this partnership is a natural fit, reflecting Bell Ingram’s commitment to supporting and promoting the country’s thriving country sports tourism industry.

      This new event will be held at Blair Castle on 2 May 2025 and will bring together estates, sporting providers, tourism businesses, and key stakeholders to explore the future of country sports tourism in Scotland. Organised by Country Sport Scotland, the leading resource for country sports tourism proudly owned and operated by the British Association for Shooting & Conservation (BASC), the conference aims to facilitate knowledge-sharing, networking, and collaboration within the sector through expert-led keynotes, panel discussions, and workshops.

      Scotland is globally renowned for its rich sporting heritage, offering world-class experiences such as deer stalking in the Highlands, game shooting on prestigious estates, and fly fishing on legendary rivers.

      With country sports tourism contributing £340 million in direct value and £760 million in total economic impact annually, Bell Ingram recognises the importance of strengthening and promoting this vital industry.

      Rob Whitson, Head of Rural Land Management at Bell Ingram, commented: “As specialists in the management of Scotland’s finest sporting estates, we understand the importance of sustainable country sports tourism. This conference provides an invaluable opportunity for industry leaders to collaborate and ensure the sector’s long-term success.”

      Kirk Norbury, Project Manager of Country Sport Scotland said: “This is a significant step forward for Scotland’s country sports tourism sector. Our industry plays a crucial role in supporting rural economies, attracting international visitors, and preserving Scotland’s sporting history. By bringing together experts, businesses, and providers, we can ensure that country sports tourism remains a sustainable and thriving part of Scotland’s visitor economy.”

      Peter Clark, Scotland Director of BASC said: “Scotland showcases the very best of sporting tourism, with a worldwide reputation of warm hospitality and the very best of experiences. BASC was delighted to take on board Country Sport Scotland last year, and we have seen this organisation go from strength to strength since this acquisition. This inaugural conference will bring the brightest and the best in the sector to champion a way forward for Scotland’s world-renowned sporting sector”.

      With strong demand from the UK, Europe, and North America, Scotland’s country sports sector has significant growth potential, particularly in high-end markets. The conference will explore strategies to position Scotland as a world-class destination for fieldsports, ensuring its continued success and sustainability.

      Bell Ingram looks forward to playing a key role in fostering innovation and driving the future growth of Scotland’s country sports tourism sector.

      Press Release Archive News, Rural Land Management Page

      Alexander Jameson Joins Bell Ingram as Consultant Partner

      Alexander Jameson Joins Bell Ingram as Consultant Partner

      Bell Ingram welcomes Alexander Jameson MRICS FAAV as Consultant Partner in the Rural Land Management team in Perth.

      Alex is a highly experienced land professional specialising in estate and sporting management. He was the principal and owner of Jameson Rural, based in Perth, and works across Scotland and the north of England. Over the last 10 years he has been involved in various committees for Scottish Land & Estates, including their National Policy Group

      A Rural Practice Surveyor, Alex has a strong background in rural estate management, estate planning, farming, forestry, landlord and tenant matters, compensation, and conservation. He also has significant expertise in sporting management, particularly in grouse moors and estates across Scotland and the north of England. In addition, he has experience in renewable energy projects, including hydroelectric schemes.

      Alex said: “Scotland’s rural estates are facing a period of significant change, with increasing pressure from land reform legislation, climate and biodiversity targets, and changing expectations around land use. Now, more than ever, estate owners and land managers need to navigate complex legal and regulatory challenges while ensuring their businesses remain sustainable. I look forward to working with Bell Ingram’s Rural Land Management team in Perth to help clients adapt to these changes and make informed decisions about their land and assets.”

      Managing Partner Mark Mitchell said: “We are pleased to have Alex on board at such a crucial time for Scotland’s rural sector. With major legislative changes ahead, including reforms to landownership, tenancy laws, and environmental policies, landowners need expert advice to stay ahead. Alex brings a wealth of knowledge in rural estate management, and his expertise will be invaluable in supporting our clients through these challenges.”