The highest village bids to buy out the biggest landowner

RESIDENTS in Scotland’s highest village have met the country’s largest landowner to discuss a potential community buyout.

The Wanlockhead Community Trust wants to purchase land in and around the Dumfriesshire village from the Duke of Buccleuch, who owns some 240,000 acres of Scotland.

They claim more could be done to promote the village, which stands 1,531ft above sea level, as a tourism destination – and believe community ownership would help regenerate the area and make it sustainable in economic, social and environmental terms for future generations.

The trust, which is owned by Wanlockhead residents, has met the duke’s representatives to discuss options for a buyout, including land which forms part of the Queensberry Estate.

Trust chairman Lincoln Richford said yesterday: ‘This was a very productive and positive first meeting and we broke a lot of

‘Productive and positive’

ground. We look forward to working further with Buccleuch Estates.

‘I believe we can find a mutually satisfying solution for both parties that will ensure a bright future for our village.’

Buccleuch chief executive John Glen said: ‘We were pleased to have had this initial meeting with the trust, as the estate is committed to playing its part in local economic development.

‘As there are many complex issues to discuss, it is too early to form any conclusions or reach decisions. However, we look forward to continuing a constructive dialogue with the trust’s representatives and villagers.’

Both parties have committed to meet regularly during the next few months as they explore different options for the community.

This autumn, the trust plans to register a formal interest in the land with the Scottish Government and develop a feasibility study and business plan.