GIS Mapping Page, The Bell Ingram Blog Spot News

From Farm to Profession: Why Rural Surveying Is a Natural Fit for Young People in Agriculture

From Farm to Profession: Why Rural Surveying Is a Natural Fit for Young People in Agriculture

By Rhona Booth, Partner

For many young people growing up on farms, choosing a career can feel like a choice between staying in agriculture or leaving it behind. But rural surveying offers a path that keeps one foot firmly in the countryside while opening the door to a rewarding professional future.

Bell Ingram’s Graduate Surveyor programme is designed to help young people turn their understanding of rural business into a long-term career that helps shape the rural economy and landscape around them.

From utilities, infrastructure and renewable energy developments to farm succession planning and diversification schemes, surveying covers a variety of exciting projects and graduates quickly discover that no two days are the same.

At Bell Ingram, our graduate surveyors play an active role within their teams from the outset. Their work includes overseeing agricultural and residential property and estate management for a wide range of clients, delivering land and property advice on major utilities, infrastructure and renewable energy schemes, and assisting with projects from initial planning through to completion.

The role requires initiative, organisation and a proactive approach to meeting client deadlines and objectives – qualities that many people from farming backgrounds already possess.

That agricultural experience can be a significant advantage. Understanding how farms operate day to day, the financial pressures facing agricultural businesses, and the realities of managing land provides valuable context when advising rural clients. Being able to combine professional knowledge with first-hand experience allows surveyors to see challenges from the client’s or landowners perspective and provide practical, grounded advice.

This connection between farming and professional services is reflected in the work graduates undertake during their first year. Typically, they gain hands-on experience across several areas, working alongside experienced surveyors on valuations, mapping, access rights, land sales and general estate management. This breadth of exposure helps graduates develop both technical knowledge and confidence in dealing with clients and rural businesses.

There are several routes into the Bell Ingram Graduate Surveyor programme. Ideally, applicants will have a degree accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). However, the firm also supports candidates who are willing to complete relevant postgraduate study to gain the necessary qualifications. Bell Ingram has supported graduates through further education to enable them to sit their Assessment of Professional Competence (APC), ensuring that those with the right attitude and rural understanding are not excluded by their academic pathway.

Professional accreditation is a central part of the graduate journey. Graduates work towards becoming Chartered Surveyors through the RICS APC, supported by a structured training programme. This includes internal and external continued professional development events, graduate training days, commercial and professional skills training, and guidance from a dedicated RICS supervisor and counsellor.

For those coming directly from hands-on farming, the transition into a professional services role can seem daunting. The graduate programme is designed to make that transition easier. By shadowing experienced professionals – many of whom continue to balance their own rural businesses alongside their surveying careers – graduates gain insight into how agricultural life and professional work can complement one another. This exposure helps build confidence and demonstrates that a career in surveying does not mean leaving farming behind.

The long-term career prospects within the profession are significant. Bell Ingram places strong emphasis on internal development and progression, with many former graduates moving into senior roles within the firm. Mark Mitchell, Managing Partner at Bell Ingram, is one such example. He began his career with the company as a Graduate Land Agent and has progressed to lead the business today, a journey that highlights the opportunities available to those entering the profession.

Other graduates from farming backgrounds have advanced to Associate and Senior Associate positions and now play an active role in mentoring and training new recruits. Their progression reflects both the value of agricultural experience and the strength of the graduate programme in developing future rural professionals.

For young people considering their future, rural surveying offers a way to stay connected to the land while building a professional career with variety, responsibility and purpose. If you love rural life but want to broaden your horizons, becoming a rural surveyor may be less of a departure from farming than it first appears, and more of a natural next step.

For more information on Bell Ingram’s Graduate Programme visit bellingram.co.uk/early-careers

GIS Mapping Page, The Bell Ingram Blog Spot News

Why Getting Land Referencing Right Matters

Why Getting Land Referencing Right Matters

Land referencing is the process of identifying all interests that are affected by a utilities and infrastructure scheme and who may have a potential claim arising from the impact of the scheme going ahead. This information on the ownership and rights to land will be the key items of data to stakeholders throughout the life cycle of a project.

It is the essential first stage of any utility or infrastructure scheme and the initial approach to a landowner or occupier often sets the tone for future negotiations. We understand how crucial this first contact can be to successful project delivery as establishing accurate information from the outset helps build trust, supports clear communication, and reduces the risk of delays later in the process.

Supporting project timelines and statutory processes

Accurate records of land ownership and occupation are required throughout the development of a project. They are fundamental to securing land access for surveys, managing stakeholder engagement, serving legal notices, and submitting applications for Compulsory Purchase Orders (CPO) and land acquisition. If this information is incomplete or incorrect, the entire project timeline can be placed at risk, potentially leading to delays, additional costs, and legal complications.

Land referencing is not limited to the footprint of permanent infrastructure. For example, on wind farm developments, access requirements often extend well beyond the turbine locations themselves. The delivery of large turbine components frequently requires temporary access across private land to accommodate abnormal loads, crane pads, widening of tracks, or temporary compounds.

Accurate land referencing ensures that all landowners and occupiers affected by these access routes are identified early, allowing the necessary access rights to be secured in advance of construction. Without this work, delivery programmes can be delayed at a critical stage of the project, particularly where transport routes cross multiple ownership boundaries.

Starting early

Land referencing should begin at the earliest stage of any project. Starting early allows sufficient time to verify ownership, confirm occupation, resolve discrepancies in land records, and maintain accurate datasets as the scheme evolves.

The role of technology in modern land referencing

Technology now plays a central role in modern land referencing. At Bell Ingram, bespoke GIS systems are used to record, analyse, and display landownership and occupier information, including the preparation of landownership maps and plans. These systems help ensure accuracy, improve efficiency, and provide clients with clear, reliable ownership information.

For more information on our Land Referencing services visit: bellingram.co.uk/utilities/land-referencing/

Farm & Estate Sales Page, The Bell Ingram Blog Spot News

Building a Career from the Ground Up: From Bell Ingram’s First Apprentice to Chartered Surveyor

Building a Career from the Ground Up: From Bell Ingram’s First Apprentice to Chartered Surveyor

This National Apprenticeship Week, we caught up with our Thirsk based Rural Surveyor, Pippa Reynolds MRICS about her experience as Bell Ingram’s first ever apprentice. Since joining the firm in 2018, Pippa has completed her apprenticeship and passed her APC to become a fully qualified chartered surveyor.

Find out more about her career journey in our Q&A below.

You joined us right at the start of the UK apprenticeship scheme – what made you choose an apprenticeship route, and what were your expectations when you first began?

I chose the apprenticeship route as I felt it would give me more practical experience alongside studying and would be especially beneficial when it came to sitting my APC. My main expectation was to gain hands-on experience, develop practical skills, and learn from people around me while completing my degree.

Looking back, what were the biggest challenges you faced during your apprenticeship, and how did you overcome them?

There were times where it was difficult to balance both working and studying, particularly in my final year where I had more responsibilities at work as well as doing my dissertation and preparing for my APC. I tried to be effective in managing my time by blocking out periods to focus on each task individually and reminding myself this wasn’t forever!

How did the combination of on-the-job experience and formal study help you develop as a surveyor, compared to a more traditional route?

I found the combination of study and on the job experience really helpful when it came to relating what I was being taught in lectures to how it would play out in real life. I think this helped provide context and by the time I sat my APC I already had 5 years of work experience compared to the traditional 2 which definitely helped with my confidence.

Becoming a fully qualified Chartered Surveyor and now an Associate is a huge milestone – what moments or achievements along the way stand out most to you?

Passing my APC was a huge achievement and Is something I am very proud of, I will always remember the day I received that result! I knew from the start of enrolling on the apprenticeship scheme that my aim was to become qualified so to see it through was very satisfying.

What advice would you give to someone considering an apprenticeship today, and how would you describe the long-term career opportunities it can offer?

I would highly recommend considering the apprenticeship route, for me it’s a no brainer. You come away with a degree, 5 years’ experience and ready to sit your APC which I think makes a candidate stand out to employers in comparison to a standard graduate. There is also the added benefit of no student debt and earning whilst studying!

Farm & Estate Sales Page, The Bell Ingram Blog Spot News

Meet the Farm Sales Team: Malcolm Taylor FRICS

Meet the Farm Sales Team: Malcolm Taylor FRICS

At the helm of Bell Ingram’s farm sales team is Malcolm Taylor FRICS, Head of Farm Sales. With decades of experience in the Scottish property market, Malcolm has built a reputation as a trusted adviser for landowners, farmers, and families looking to make the most of their farm sale.

A highly experienced Chartered Surveyor, Malcolm combines deep-rooted knowledge of land values across Scotland with a sharp understanding of the factors that influence the market today. His up-to-the-minute insight means clients can move forward with confidence, knowing their decisions are backed by solid expertise.

A skilled negotiator, Malcolm is able to steer complex sales, manage expectations, and secure the best possible results has made him a go-to advisor not only within Bell Ingram, but across the wider farming and rural property community.

Malcom knows that selling a farm is rarely just a business transaction – it’s a life-changing decision. His clients value his ability to listen, understand their priorities, and guide them through the process with clarity and reassurance.

Whether advising on market timing, providing accurate valuations, or negotiating sales, Malcolm’s wealth of experience and steady hand ensure clients achieve their property goals. As Head of Farm Sales, he leads the team with the same commitment he brings to every client – delivering results built on trust, knowledge, and decades of expertise.

Contact Malcolm Taylor on 01307 462 516 or email malcolm.taylor@bellingram.co.uk to discuss your farm sale.

The Bell Ingram Blog Spot News

Volunteers Brave the Weather for Tree Planting

Volunteers Brave The Weather For Tree Planting

Foresters Stuart McArtney and Sam Guthrie have been out at Cocksburn Reservoir, working alongside a fantastic group of volunteers as part of a three-day tree-planting effort led by Scottish Water.

Despite some challenging weather, the event was a real success, with around 1,300 trees planted across Thursday to Saturday.

Friday saw 10 volunteers and six supporting staff braving the elements to plant approximately 780 trees, with the welfare unit providing a very welcome warm-up and lunch spot. The turnout and enthusiasm from volunteers – and the overwhelmingly positive reaction from members of the public passing by – highlighted just how much support there is for projects like this.

 

Forestry Case Studies

Pioneering Drone Technology Seeds Millions of Trees at Talla Reservoir

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. 

Carbon Overview Page, The Bell Ingram Blog Spot News

The Road to Net Zero: What it means for farmers and landowners

The Road to Net Zero: What it means for farmers and landowners

by Rhona Booth, Senior Associate

In an era defined by the urgent need to address climate change, the UK and Scottish Governments have emerged as global leaders in the race towards a sustainable future. With a commitment to environmental responsibility, both governments have set ambitious Net Zero targets signalling a transformative shift towards a low-carbon, resilient economy.

In Scotland, farmers and landowners hold the key to delivering many of the sector targets, specifically around carbon offsetting, sustainable farming practices, afforestation projects and initiatives to enhance biodiversity.

The Scottish Government also continues to invest in and promote the development of renewable energy projects, aiming to generate a substantial portion of the country’s energy from clean sources.

In this article I explore the financial opportunities around the strategies and initiatives employed by the Scottish Government to fulfil its commitments to achieving Net Zero.

Solar Power: One of the most promising avenues for landowners is the integration of solar energy into the national grid. Scotland’s government has been actively encouraging the adoption of renewable energy, and solar power is no exception.

Developers are actively pursuing solar opportunities across Scotland with hotspots on the East Coast where irradiance levels are highest. Bell Ingram are acting for numerous land owners, negotiating exclusivity agreements, Heads of Terms and assisting landowners and their legal advisors during the option and lease process.  Lease terms are typically 40 years with rentals significantly greater than those generated from agriculture making hosting a solar development and attractive proposition. Bell Ingram will negotiate the best deal with our knowledge of the market and expertise on practical matters of development. The developer will meet the cost of professional fees. Although the connection date to the grid can be up to a decade away due to the constraints on the electricity network, developers are keen to secure land at the present time via an option agreement.

Battery Storage: While solar (and wind power) are integral to the renewable energy landscape, they come with inherent challenges related to intermittency and grid stability. This is where battery storage systems play a crucial role. By storing excess energy generated during peak times and releasing it when demand is high, battery storage helps balance the grid, ensuring a reliable and stable power supply.

Landowners can enter into lease agreements with energy developers for the use of their land to host battery storage facilities. These agreements typically involve regular rental payments, providing a steady income stream for landowners without requiring active involvement in the day-to-day operations.

The land take for battery storage is relatively small, four to 20 acres making this opportunity as an addition to the farming business and income stream. The proximity of a substation is a prerequisite to hosting a battery storage scheme.

Carbon Off Setting: The financial opportunities for landowners in the realm of carbon offsetting, particularly through woodland creation schemes, are vast. However, it is essential for stakeholders to approach this market with a commitment to sustainability and ethical practices. By carefully navigating the complexities of acquisition, market dynamics, and ecological considerations, landowners can play a pivotal role in combatting climate change while reaping the financial rewards of responsible carbon offset initiatives.

Electricity Infrastructure: SSE’s massive £10 billion investment in electricity infrastructure is geared towards enhancing and expanding Scotland’s electricity infrastructure. This includes the development of renewable energy projects, grid upgrades, and the deployment of cutting-edge technology. Landowners situated in proximity to these projects stand to benefit significantly.

One of the primary opportunities lies in leasing land for renewable energy projects such as wind farms or solar installations. SSE’s commitment to increasing renewable capacity provides an ideal environment for landowners to generate steady income through long-term leases.

Beyond renewable energy projects, SSE’s investment includes significant upgrades to the electricity grid. It is important for landowners to engage early with SSE to ensure that their views are taken into account as far as possible in the design of the scheme. New pylons are the unfortunate requirement to secure renewable opportunities across the country and SSE and the Scottish Government has strong statutory powers the roll out their infrastructure programme.

Low-Carbon Hydrogen Economy: The Acorn Project, based in North East Scotland, is a groundbreaking initiative that aims to deliver low-carbon energy solutions. At its core, the project focuses on repurposing existing oil and gas infrastructure to support the development of a low-carbon hydrogen economy.

One crucial aspect of the Acorn Project is the need for gas transportation to the St Fergus terminal and those landowners situated along the gas transportation route to St Fergus have a unique chance to play a crucial role in this transformative journey. By exploring servitude agreements, lease arrangements, and actively participating in community development, it is envisaged that landowners can maximise the financial benefits while contributing to a more sustainable and resilient energy future.

Top Tips:

  • While the financial opportunities are abundant, it is crucial for landowners to navigate the regulatory landscape effectively.

  • Understanding planning permissions, environmental impact assessments, and community engagement requirements is essential for a successful partnership with energy infrastructure developers.

  • Seeking professional advice can help landowners make informed decisions and ensure compliance with regulations.

To find out how Bell Ingram can help your rural business make the most of these opportunities phone 01738 621 121 to speak to Rhona Booth or one of our Rural Land Management team.

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Forestry Case Studies, The Bell Ingram Blog Spot News

Forestry: Multiple benefits even in a quieter market

Forestry: Multiple benefits even in a quieter market

It seems 2023 has been a quieter year for forestry sales, with fewer properties being brought to the open market and agreed sales not seeing such high premiums paid as in the previous few years. One reason for this will be the fall in timber prices, which is obviously linked to the price paid for the growing crop – if returns from timber sales fall, plus there are increased harvesting costs resulting from higher fuel and other related costs, then the price investors are willing and able to pay has to reduce.

Sellers looking to secure high premiums need to be advised to consider the need to sell now or to readjust expectations, even if this is just in the short term. However, global demand for timber in the next 30 years is likely to continue to increase, partly based on the high sustainability of it within the construction industry, and it is well known that timber prices can be somewhat cynical – playing the long game should pay dividends. 

As a long-term investment, forestry remains a good bet, underlined by advantages in both capital gains and inheritance tax liabilities for commercially managed woodlands. Natural capital, carbon and peatland opportunities can also be secured from forestry, although the advice remains to exercise caution before jumping into deals which may hinder future flexibility, impact on the investment value or affect tax benefits.

Elsewhere in the market small amenity woodlands continue to see constant demand. As an affordable, often personal, investment, small local woodlands offer benefits and interests, again with opportunities to enhance a property’s biodiversity, improve public access or offer other community benefits. Enthusiastic owners working with forestry and other nature-based advisors can make big differences to a woodland’s interests in a relatively short time, and if kept for many years, monitoring can really prove these changes.

Finally, the need for firms to enhance their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) by getting employees to put something back into the community and the environment, means charities like The Woodland Trust or Wildlife Trusts can benefit from free input from volunteers. Planting new trees, clearing out invasive Rhododendrons or putting in a new footpath route also help cement the public’s engagement with woods in their locality.  Bell Ingram foresters and land agents can advise clients on suitable works for volunteers. Our staff are indeed encouraged to put on their own boots for nature-based volunteering activities as part of our efforts for both internal team building and enhancing the environment – watch this space for evidence!

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Forestry Case Studies, Press Release Archive News

Forestry Grant Available for Scotland’s Farmers

Forestry Grant Available for Scotland’s Farmers

With 85% of farmland in Scotland classified as Less Favoured Area (LFA) and with current uncertainties over the future of agricultural subsidies, there are significant opportunities for landowners to maximise business productivity by adding value to underproductive land via woodland creation.

New woodlands have the potential to create an additional sustainable long term income stream for your business and an important source of low carbon, low cost woodfuel, at the same time as realising tax, livestock and crop productivity and environmental benefits.

Farmers looking to unlock the benefits of trees on their land can access £1000 funding from the Farm Advisory Service for woodland creation, which can now be used for Bell Ingram’s forestry services as Specialist Advisors to FAS.

Bell Ingram’s Forestry team would be pleased to talk to anyone who would like to take advantage of the funding options available.

Woodland Creation

Bell Ingram works with clients who wish to undertake woodland creation projects and are able to offer a “one stop shop” encompassing the whole process from the initial design and grant approval stage, through to implementation, maintenance and final establishment.

For larger schemes, we can also accommodate any Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) requirements.

Most recently Bell Ingram has successful secured a number of Locational Premium Schemes, allowing landowner concerned to benefit from the additional incentives on offer and find an alternative land-use for marginal agricultural land.

To find out more about our forestry services in Scotland contact Geoff Brown on geoff.brown@bellingram.co.uk or 01292 886544.

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