Aigas Golf Course and Holiday Cottages: A Unique Business Opportunity Combining Scenic Leisure and Potential Expansion

A rare and exciting opportunity has emerged for potential buyers seeking to acquire a beautifully maintained golf course with extensive holiday letting potential, nestled in the scenic Highlands of Scotland.

Brought to market by Highland Estate Agents, Bell Ingram for offers over £1,500,000, Aigas Golf Course, established in 1993, presents a unique combination of recreational, hospitality, and agricultural opportunities.

Situated amidst 30 acres of rolling parkland this well-established facility offers a turnkey operation for new proprietors with substantial potential for future growth.

The nine-hole Aigas Golf Course is a meticulously landscaped, family-friendly course that has garnered loyal members over the years. Along with the manicured greens, the property includes a practice area and a clubhouse that features a well-equipped kitchen, office, rear lobby, and WCs (including a disabled-accessible WC). The clubhouse is a welcoming hub for golfers, offering light refreshments and snacks, making it an ideal spot for both members and visitors to relax post-round.

The course is home to the Aigas Golf Club, an independently run organisation that utilises the course as its base during the golfing season. To ensure a smooth transition, the current owner is prepared to offer training and support to the new proprietor, providing an excellent opportunity for continued success.

“We are delighted to bring Aigas Golf Course to the Highlands commercial property market,” says Estate Agent, Joanne Stennett. “This is a truly unique opportunity for buyers looking to invest in a versatile and thriving business. With its stunning natural surroundings and well-maintained facilities, this property offers immense potential for both leisure and hospitality ventures. A rare gem in the Highlands market.” 

In addition to the golf course, Aigas boasts four self-catering cottages, offering a well-established stream of rental income from the tourism sector. Currently operating from March to November, there is ample opportunity to extend the rental period year-round and tap into the growing demand for winter breaks in the Highlands. All cottages are fully furnished and come with access to a laundry room and games room.

The Coach House is a spacious three-bedroom, two-storey cottage located on the West wing of a Victorian courtyard. Overlooking a serene mill pond, it features a cozy living area with a log burning stove, making it a favourite among visitors.

Pond View is a charming three-bedroom, first-floor cottage, accessed by a beautiful stone staircase. Offering stunning views over the golf course and surrounding countryside, it provides an idyllic retreat for guests.

Old Dairy and Old Stable are two delightful ground-floor cottages on the East wing. Both are two-bedroom properties, with scenic views over the course and neighbouring forests. The cottages share access to a peaceful communal garden, BBQ area, and outdoor seating, ideal for relaxing on warm summer days.

Adjacent to the holiday accommodation are several steadings and farm buildings. These buildings vary in construction and condition, but the traditional stone structures, in particular, may present excellent redevelopment potential with the necessary consents. Whether for expansion of the holiday accommodation or agricultural purposes, the buildings offer flexibility for the new owner’s vision.

Aigas Golf Course is also complemented by approximately 26 acres of agricultural land, which offers opportunities for continued grass production or diversified agricultural activities. The land is well-fenced and benefits from river frontage, making it suitable for high-quality agricultural production.

Bell Ingram celebrates perfect score at Achilles Audit

Bell Ingram has achieved an outstanding 100% score in the recent Achilles Audit, a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence.

The Achilles Audits are independent assessments that rigorously evaluate an organisation’s management systems to ensure they meet specific standards. These audits validate our capability, competence, and compliance as a supplier organisation, reinforcing our position as a trusted and reliable partner.

Commenting on the success of the Achilles Audit, Bell Ingram’s Compliance Manager, Samantha McDonald says: “Bell Ingram is delighted to have maintained its 100% rating through Achilles. It demonstrates our continued commitment to maintaining the highest possible standards of health & safety and quality assurance. The results also reflect our commitment to sustainability and community welfare through our environmental and corporate social responsibility policies.

“The results are a credit to our teams who consistently uphold these high standards throughout all the work we do.”

Partner Geoff Brown added: “A fantastic result once again and testament to Sam’s hard work and that of the team. Well done everyone.”

Read more about Achilles and the work they do here: achilles.com

Established Luxury Chalet Portfolio in the Scottish Highlands Hits the Market

A rare opportunity has emerged in the Scottish Highlands as a portfolio of four luxury holiday chalets in Ardendrain, near Kiltarlity, has been listed for sale by Scottish estate agents Bell Ingram.

Priced at offers over £500,000, this established holiday business offers significant growth potential in a thriving tourism market.

The chalet park, situated just five miles from Beauly and 11 miles from Inverness, is positioned to capitalise on the increasing popularity of UK staycations. The location offers stunning views and proximity to popular tourist attractions, making it a sought-after destination for holidaymakers.

The chalets, each featuring three bedrooms, have recently undergone extensive upgrades to provide modern, stylish accommodation.

With three decades of successful operation under the same family ownership, the park has built a strong reputation, evidenced by a high rate of returning visitors. The existing business generates reliable income, and with Planning Permission already secured for the addition of two more chalets, there is clear potential for expansion and increased revenue.

Joanne Stennett, the estate agent handling the sale, noted: “This is an exceptional opportunity for investors looking to acquire a lifestyle business in one of Scotland’s most beautiful locations. With the current trend towards domestic travel, this property offers a secure investment with room for growth. The retiring owners are prepared to provide detailed financial records to serious buyers.”

Interested parties are encouraged to contact Joanne Stennett at 01463 717799 for further information or to arrange a viewing. 

Our people

Joanne Stennett

Joanne Stennett

Associate
Estate Agency
Tel: 01463 717 799

About: Joanne heads up the Estate Agency team in our Beauly office and is focused on ensuring her clients have a positive experience when they list their property with Bell Ingram. From country houses to farms and estates, she has been marketing prime residential property in the Highlands and Islands for over 17 years. Joanne is well known in the local area, having developed excellent relationships with buyers and sellers. Interests: Residential Estate Agency, Rural Property Sales.

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We'd love to hear from you, use the form below to email me direct

    Rare chance to own a slice of Unst’s architectural heritage

    A slice of Shetland history has come to the market with the sale of a portfolio of properties located on the UK’s northernmost point, the Island of Unst.

    Nestled on the banks of Loch of Cliff, Houlland House, Steading and Da Laggans hold significant architectural and historical value and represent an integral part of the local heritage on Unst.

    Currently cared for by the National Trust for Scotland, the conservation charity is seeking new owners who can bring these properties to life while continuing to care for and preserve their architectural significance.

    Alongside the main residency, Houlland House, the sale includes a C listed agricultural steading and a second lot, a small cottage called Da Laggans. Each building offers a unique glimpse into the architectural styles and construction methods that were prevalent in Shetland. The properties were originally part of the larger Gardie Estate and early census records shows Houlland House inhabited as far back as 1841.

    The Steading has earned a C listing due to its significance locally as it is unique to Unst with only one other similar steading on the island, representing an important part of local agricultural history.

    The portfolio of properties were gifted to the National Trust for Scotland by Joy Sandison and the charity is now bringing these properties to market for the benefit of the Halligarth Project. All funds support the Trust’s charitable purpose and will be reinvested into the project that aims to deliver lasting impact for locals and visitors.

    Prospective buyers are asked to submit proposals for the properties with their intensions of use, which will be reviewed by the Trust. A National Trust for Scotland Conservation Burden will be applied to the title to ensure that renovation proposals are appropriate.

    Unst is renowned for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage and provides a picturesque setting for these historic properties. The island is famed for its rugged beauty, vibrant wildlife, and traditional Shetland culture, making it an attractive destination for those seeking tranquillity and a connection to Scotland’s rural roots.

    The properties are being offered as a whole for offers over £150,000 by rural property specialists, Bell Ingram. Alternatively, they are available for purchase in two separate lots, providing a rare opportunity for buyers to own a piece of Shetland’s storied past.

    Moira Webley, Estate Agent at Bell Ingram, comments on the sale: “These properties are not just buildings; they are a testament to the rich agricultural history of Unst and Shetland as a whole. Their architectural significance and the care they have received from the National Trust for Scotland make them a truly unique offering. We are excited to bring these properties to market and look forward to finding buyers who will appreciate and preserve their historical importance.”

    For more information on these properties visit bellingram.co.uk or contact Moira Webley on 01738 621 121, or email moira.webley@bellingram.co.uk.

    Our people

    Joanne Stennett

    Joanne Stennett

    Associate
    Estate Agency
    Tel: 01463 717 799

    About: Joanne heads up the Estate Agency team in our Beauly office and is focused on ensuring her clients have a positive experience when they list their property with Bell Ingram. From country houses to farms and estates, she has been marketing prime residential property in the Highlands and Islands for over 17 years. Joanne is well known in the local area, having developed excellent relationships with buyers and sellers. Interests: Residential Estate Agency, Rural Property Sales.

    Get in touch

    We'd love to hear from you, use the form below to email me direct

      Charming Coastal Cottage in the Heart of Reef, Isle of Lewis

      Nestled in the tranquil and scenic hamlet of Reef on the Isle of Lewis, this beautifully presented, C-listed, two-bedroom stone-built cottage is a true gem. Bell Ingram is delighted to present 11A Reef, Isle of Lewis, to the market for offers over £325,000.

      Set within the vibrant crofting community of the Valtos Peninsula, Reef offers a picturesque escape amidst the hills and beaches of the Uig area on the West Coast of the Isle of Lewis. This delightful detached property boasts stunning water views across neighbouring croft land, extending to the sea and the majestic hills of Harris beyond.

      Reef is situated in a quiet location within a thriving crofting community on the community-owned Valtos Peninsula. It is surrounded by spectacular hills, a rugged coastline, and stunning, unpolluted beaches at Reef, Cliff, and elsewhere on the peninsula. The area is renowned for its natural beauty, making it an ideal spot for those seeking tranquillity and breathtaking scenery.

      The cottage welcomes you with a UPVC door leading into a charming open-plan living, dining, and kitchen area. The cozy living room, with a window to the front, showcases breathtaking views over the croft land to the sea and hills. A wood-burning stove set on a stone hearth with a stone surround adds to the warmth and character of the space.

      The kitchen, equipped with a range of cream floor and wall units and a wood-effect work surface, includes an integrated electric oven with a four-ring ceramic hob, fridge, freezer, and washer-dryer. Dual-aspect windows in the dining area provide a perfect spot to enjoy meals with a backdrop of beautiful views.

      Ascending the stairs from the sitting room, you reach the upper floor landing, which leads to two well-appointed bedrooms and a bathroom. Both bedrooms offer elevated, far-reaching views over the water and the hills, ensuring a serene and picturesque outlook.

      The property features a charming lawned garden to the front, complete with a path leading to the gate. The garden wraps around the property and is fully enclosed with stock fencing, offering a safe and private outdoor space. Additionally, there is off-street parking available at the front of the cottage.

      The Uig area, tucked among picturesque hills and beaches, offers a wealth of amenities. Uig boasts an award-winning village shop with petrol, serviced laundry, and post office. An excellent primary school, a village museum, hall, and cafe with electric car charging are all within reach. The village hall hosts regular concerts, ceilidhs, and activities. Dining options include the upscale Uig Sands and the Reef Raider trailer cafe near 11A Reef. A request bus service connects Uig to Stornoway, where you’ll find facilities such as a hospital, arts centre, library, museum, cafes, bars, and restaurants, along with two supermarkets. Regular ferries sail to Ullapool, and Loganair flights connect Stornoway to Inverness, Glasgow, and Edinburgh, with further connections to London.

      The island of Lewis and Harris, part of the Outer Hebrides, is famed for its crofting villages, hills, beaches, lochs, and world-renowned rivers ideal for angling and stalking. Historic sites, including Standing Stones, Brochs, Viking Mills, and the Uig Chessmen, are significant attractions. The island’s rich birdlife and vast carpets of Hebridean wildflowers further enhance its allure.

      Joanne Stennett, the estate agent managing the sale, comments: “This charming cottage is an ideal retreat, offering a blend of traditional character and modern comfort with unparalleled views. It’s perfect for those seeking tranquillity and natural beauty.”

      For more information or to arrange a viewing, please contact Joanne Stennett on 01463 717 799 or email joanne.stennett@bellingram.co.uk

       

      Our people

      Joanne Stennett

      Joanne Stennett

      Associate
      Estate Agency
      Tel: 01463 717 799

      About: Joanne heads up the Estate Agency team in our Beauly office and is focused on ensuring her clients have a positive experience when they list their property with Bell Ingram. From country houses to farms and estates, she has been marketing prime residential property in the Highlands and Islands for over 17 years. Joanne is well known in the local area, having developed excellent relationships with buyers and sellers. Interests: Residential Estate Agency, Rural Property Sales.

      Get in touch

      We'd love to hear from you, use the form below to email me direct

        Discover Tranquillity and Charm at Flat 1B, Free Church Manse on the Isle of Coll

        Bell Ingram Oban presents a unique five-bedroom property offering historic charm and modern comforts.

        Bell Ingram Oban is delighted to present Flat 1B, Free Church Manse, a hidden gem nestled within the picturesque coastal village of Arinagour on the Isle of Coll. This spacious five-bedroom property, rich in history and modern comforts, is a versatile retreat ideal for family living or holiday getaways in one of Scotland’s most stunning island settings.

        The Isle of Coll is celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes and serene environment, providing the perfect backdrop for this charming two-floor residence. The classic stone façade of the former Free Church Manse greets you upon arrival, a testament to the building’s historical significance within the local community. Inside, the flat offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, seamlessly blending contemporary style with traditional elements.

        Accessed from the first floor by the original stone staircase, the flat is tastefully decorated and designed to maximise comfort and functionality. Andrew Fuller, Estate Agent at Bell Ingram Oban, describes the property: “A spacious living area is located on the first floor, bathed in natural light, thanks to dual aspect windows that offer far-reaching views of the village and surrounding countryside.

        “The kitchen extends through to combine with dining and lounge areas, a wonderful place to socialise with family and friends. The accommodation is split between the first and upper floors, five bedrooms in total, offering flexibility for alternate uses, as required.”

        One of the standout features of Flat 1B is its central island location. The Isle of Coll is renowned for its wildlife, unspoiled beaches, and outdoor activities.

        Andrew Fuller adds: “Whether you’re an avid birdwatcher, a beachcomber, or someone who simply enjoys the great outdoors, this island has something for everyone. The local community is friendly and welcoming, making it easy to feel at home.”

        The property also offers the convenience of being close to essential amenities, including local shops and transport links, making it an excellent choice for those seeking an escape from city life without sacrificing convenience.

        Flat 1B, Free Church Manse is truly a rare find, offering a unique blend of historic charm and modern living in a spectacular setting.

        For more information or to arrange a viewing, contact Andrew Fuller at 01631 566 122 or email andrew.fuller@bellingram.co.uk

        Our people

        Andrew Fuller

        Andrew Fuller

        Senior Associate
        Estate Agency
        Tel: 01631 566 122

        About: Andrew heads up the Estate Agency team in our Oban office and is focused on ensuring his clients have a first-class experience when they list their property with Bell Ingram. A resident of the Isle of Mull, Andrew is very well known across the West Coast of Scotland and has developed an excellent reputation for marketing prime residential property, including plots, crofts, island homes and lifestyle opportunities. Andrew joined Bell Ingram following almost 15 years managing several high-level private and commercial development projects in the United Arab Emirates. Interests: Residential Estate Agency, Rural Property Sales.

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          Luxurious Kinellen Country House Hits the Market for £800,000

          Bell Ingram is proud to announce the sale of Kinellen, a luxurious five to six-bedroom detached country house, now available for offers over £800,000. Nestled in a highly sought-after rural setting near Muir of Ord, this exquisite property boasts spectacular panoramic views across the Conon Valley, extending to Ben Wyvis and the majestic Northwest Highlands.

          Constructed in 2005, Kinellen stands as a substantial family home, featuring sandstone exterior walls on its main elevations and set within extensive, beautifully landscaped garden grounds. The house is impeccably maintained and showcases top-tier craftsmanship with high-quality, solid oak fixtures and fittings throughout.

          Designed with both elegance and functionality in mind, Kinellen welcomes residents with a striking double-height reception hall, bathed in natural light from an expansive roof window. The kitchen is a chef’s dream, equipped with a double oven Aga and meticulously crafted fittings. Spacious rooms are thoughtfully arranged to maximise the breathtaking views, offering luxurious family accommodations, including the convenience of an internal lift to the upper floor.

          The exterior of the property is equally impressive, with a block-paved driveway meandering through a wooded front garden, leading to ample parking for multiple vehicles. A sandstone-paved patio encircles the back of the house, providing an ideal space for outdoor entertainment. The rear garden features a charming stone dyke boundary, with lush lawns, planted beds, borders, and mature trees. The front garden is adorned with ornamental bushes and mature trees, enhancing the property’s tranquil ambiance.

          Joanne Stennett, Estate Agent at Bell Ingram, highlights the property’s allure: “Kinellen is a stunning property. The extremely high-quality fixtures and fittings, beautifully proportioned rooms, well-maintained gardens, and far-reaching views make a winning combination.”

          For more information or to arrange a viewing, contact Joanne Stennett at 01463 717799 or email joanne.stennett@bellingram.co.uk. 

          Our people

          Joanne Stennett

          Joanne Stennett

          Associate
          Estate Agency
          Tel: 01463 717 799

          About: Joanne heads up the Estate Agency team in our Beauly office and is focused on ensuring her clients have a positive experience when they list their property with Bell Ingram. From country houses to farms and estates, she has been marketing prime residential property in the Highlands and Islands for over 17 years. Joanne is well known in the local area, having developed excellent relationships with buyers and sellers. Interests: Residential Estate Agency, Rural Property Sales.

          Get in touch

          We'd love to hear from you, use the form below to email me direct

            Beautifully designed modern-day home with period features

            A substantial and beautifully presented country house has come to the rural Perthshire property market.

            Enjoying a peaceful location in the rural hamlet of Moneydie, rural property experts Bell Ingram is delighted to bring Newhouse to the market for offers over £850,000.

            The small hamlet of Moneydie is an idyllic, rural location, but as the A9 is just under three miles away, it is also easy to reach the amenities of nearby Perth.

            The Newhouse is a delightful property which presents extremely well. It was traditionally constructed in 1998 to include many features you would expect to find in a period house, making it blend well with the surrounding properties.

            Real attention to detail is evident in the large public rooms and bedrooms, high ceilings, fireplaces, cornicing, and the pitch pine staircase with mid landing and feature window. 

            In addition to the good balance of living accommodation, there is a large utility room with a separate laundry room and pantry. Externally there is a game larder/kennel, a double garage with cart arch openings and a hayloft, all reminiscent of older properties. 

            A tree-lined driveway is enclosed by wrought iron gates. The boundaries are clearly marked with a mix of stone walling and hedging. The grounds, which extend to about 0.73 acres, are extensively laid to lawn with features such as box hedging and mature planting providing colour and variety, specimen trees and magnolia bushes. Gravel driveway leads to a courtyard parking area and then to the sheltered southwest part of the garden.

            Commenting on the property, Estate Agent, Carl Warden says: “This is a beautiful family home. It has an excellent balance of accommodation and has well thought out features reminiscent of a period property – perfect for modern day living.”

            The traditionally constructed double garage, extending to 53.6 m2, has two cart arch openings with timber doors and a side door and window. Internal staircase leads to a floored hayloft with hayloft doors on the gable end and south facing Velux windows. This upper floor, extending to 40.9 m2, could provide opportunity for development as a studio or granny/au pair accommodation, subject to obtaining the necessary planning consents.

            For more information, or to arrange a viewing contact Carl Warden on 01738 621 121 or email carl.warden@bellingram.co.uk 

             

            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

              Contemporary Rural Home, Glencassley

              Replacing a derelict building with a bespoke modern home in stunning surroundings.

              Brief

              Bell Ingram Design (BID) was appointed in the last quarter of 2019 to deliver full architectural services for a bespoke contemporary home which would replace an existing cottage that has been derelict for over 20 years.

              The decision to construct a new build dwelling was not one taken lightly by the client, but the feasibility study conducted by our architects proved bringing the existing property up to current standards would not be economically feasible, and a new build property was the more viable option.

              The client’s brief was to create a three bedroom home with a large open plan living area. This gave BID the opportunity to explore the potential for a truly contemporary design approach which fits unobtrusively into its stunning surroundings.

              Process

              On behalf of our client we have obtained Planning Approval and Building Warrant Consent for this bespoke, modern and contemporary house design. The project is currently out for tender and we are looking forward to progressing on to site in the coming months.

              Outcome

              A crucial part of the brief was to incorporate a variety of signage for Skoda which was visible from all relevant approaches to the site for heightened consumer interaction. This was to include branded flags, logo walls on active frontages and a prominent entrance portal for customers. Internally, a mezzanine level was included to create more floor area which contains an additional manager office and meeting space with glazed screening to overlook the double height showroom below.

              Our people

              Murray Fleming

              Murray Fleming

              Senior Associate, Architect
              Design
              Tel: 01463 717 799

              About: As Senior Architect based in Bell Ingram’s Beauly office, Murray is responsible for the company's architectural services covering the Highlands and Islands. He has extensive design and project management experience in a wide range of building sectors, including residential, commercial, public and healthcare. Interests: Full architectural design service, Planning advice & submissions, Feasibility studies, Condition surveys, Building warrant advice & submissions, Administration of construction contracts.

              Get in touch

              We'd love to hear from you, use the form below to email me direct

                Our people

                Lauren Livingston

                Lauren Livingston

                Associate, Architectural Technologist
                Design
                Tel: 01307 462 516

                About: Lauren joined Bell Ingram Design in 2017 with a First Class BSc (Hons) in Architectural Technology. Following her success in winning the student CIAT Aspiration Award, she has continued to be an active member of CIAT as an Associate Member. Lauren works from our Forfar office providing assistance to our Principal Architects and Planner on projects throughout the country. Interests: Architecture, Building Conservation, BIM (Building Information Modelling), Sustainability.

                Get in touch

                We'd love to hear from you, use the form below to email me direct

                  Article posted on 13/09/21

                  Full Design Service Renovation Project

                  Derelict agricultural building transformed into a stylish holiday home which compliments the landscape and makes the most of the stunning views across Glen Clova and Glen Moy.

                  Brief

                  Bell Ingram Design (BID) were asked to convert and extend a derelict bothy into a modern, three-bedroom holiday home. The property is located on an Angus estate and the client had immediately seen the potential of its stunning views across to Glen Moy and Glen Glova.

                  This was a full design service brief which involved securing planning and building warrant approval, managing the tender process, and delivering full project management on site.

                   

                  Process

                  An open plan living space was created in the main bothy section with existing and new openings used to maintain the agricultural appearance. A Siberian larch-clad extension was added to the north side of the property to house a bedroom, utility room, bathroom and sunroom with a large picture window opening onto a glazed veranda to take advantage of the views all year round. 

                  Outcome

                  This once derelict bothy is now an attractive, modern, three-bedroom dwelling house, which has been designed to take advantage of the beautiful surrounding countryside. The traditional stone bothy has been complemented by the use of natural materials on the contemporary extension. Internally the layout has been designed to provide a functional and comfortable environment. Our client was extremely happy with the finished building and regularly visit throughout the year with their friends and family.

                  Our people

                  Glen Moy Bothy | Angus Glens

                  Get in touch

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                    Our people

                    Glen Moy Bothy | Angus Glens

                    Get in touch

                    We'd love to hear from you, use the form below to email me direct

                      Article posted on 23/09/2020

                      Remote Lunch Bothy, Highland Estate

                      Client calls on BID’s planning expertise to deliver a bespoke lunch stop for shooting parties.

                      Brief

                      An existing client wanted to build a private bothy on their remote Highland Estate. The vision was to create a property which would better cater for paying guests during the grouse shooting season, generating additional income for the Estate and employment opportunities for local people. It would also be used by the client’s family and estate workers managing the moorland all year round. On this project BID provided planning and design services.

                      Process

                      We agreed a suitable location with the client and designed a simple and secure wood structure which was accessible via existing hill tracks. There was no requirement for connection to services. We submitted a planning application supported by a reasoned justification for the new bothy which, as the use included a shooting bothy, did not benefit from agricultural permitted development rights.

                      Outcome

                      Planning permission was granted with the statutory timescale of eight weeks and our success led onto further requests from new clients and owners of Highland Estates for Bell Ingram Design to advise on new and replacement bothy buildings.

                      Our people

                      Catherine Newton

                      Catherine Newton

                      Chartered Town Planner
                      Utilities & Renewables
                      Tel: 01738 621 121

                      About: Catherine has worked for Bell Ingram as a Planning Consultant since 2012. Her planning career over the past 30 years has included public and private sector, government agency and charity roles. She brings to every new project an extensive knowledge and understanding of planning legislation, as well as an insight into the requirements of the decision makers and statutory consultees. Interests: Planning, Development and Environmental Legislation throughout UK.

                      Get in touch

                      We'd love to hear from you, use the form below to email me direct

                        Our people

                        Lauren Livingston

                        Lauren Livingston

                        Associate, Architectural Technologist
                        Design
                        Tel: 01307 462 516

                        About: Lauren joined Bell Ingram Design in 2017 with a First Class BSc (Hons) in Architectural Technology. Following her success in winning the student CIAT Aspiration Award, she has continued to be an active member of CIAT as an Associate Member. Lauren works from our Forfar office providing assistance to our Principal Architects and Planner on projects throughout the country. Interests: Architecture, Building Conservation, BIM (Building Information Modelling), Sustainability.

                        Get in touch

                        We'd love to hear from you, use the form below to email me direct

                          Article posted on 05/08/2020

                          RSPB Bird Hide, Udale Bay Reserve

                          Replacing an end of life hide with a larger structure that featured an interpretation space and full access for wheelchair users.

                          Brief

                          The RSPB’s Udale Bay Reserve is a peaceful, intertidal bay on the Cromarty Firth which is home to thousands of waders, ducks and geese. With our experience of working in protected natural habitats, Bell Ingram Design was engaged to replace an end of life hide on the site with a new, larger structure that would include an interpretation space along with full access for wheelchair users. 

                          Process

                          The design approach was for an all timber structure with larch cladding which was left untreated allowing it weather naturally to a silvery finish. The building was set on stilts to minimise its impact on the immediate surrounding ground.

                          Careful consideration was given to the ergonomics of the seated viewing windows so that all of these could be used by both wheelchair and non wheelchair users. A large floor-to-ceiling viewing window was incorporated providing a panoramic view over the bay, another wall included child height windows allowing up close viewing of the bird life in the trees and shrubs next to the building. Dedicated space was also provided for an artwork by a local artist which fills the hide with colour depicting the changing seasons along with the range of seasonal birds that visit the Reserve.

                          Outcome

                          The building has proved to be very successful, we were very pleased to read the following entry in the Visitors’ Book from RSPB members visiting from England shortly after the building’s opening: “What a fantastic hide, we have never seen such an excellent hide catering for all ages, well done!”

                          With feedback like that, we consider that ‘Job done’!

                          Our people

                          Murray Fleming

                          Murray Fleming

                          Senior Associate, Architect
                          Design
                          Tel: 01463 717 799

                          About: As Senior Architect based in Bell Ingram’s Beauly office, Murray is responsible for the company's architectural services covering the Highlands and Islands. He has extensive design and project management experience in a wide range of building sectors, including residential, commercial, public and healthcare. Interests: Full architectural design service, Planning advice & submissions, Feasibility studies, Condition surveys, Building warrant advice & submissions, Administration of construction contracts.

                          Get in touch

                          We'd love to hear from you, use the form below to email me direct

                            Article posted on 03/08/2020