Cattle ‘flyover’ shortlisted for RICS award

One of the latest additions to the Royal Highland’s ever-evolving Ingliston showground has been shortlisted for a prestigious industry award.

The innovative livestock and equestrian flyover, installed last year at the east end of the main ring, is in the running for the coveted Infrastructure category at the RICS Awards.

Engineered by Perthshire-based firm Bell Ingram Design, in partnership with the Royal Highland & Agricultural Society of Scotland (RHASS), the unique construction allows animals and their handlers and riders to flow freely in and out of the main arena without restricting spectator flow around the show site during peak times.

Iain Cram, director of a team of architects at the firm, said a high degree of intricate geometry was required to complete the one-of-a-kind project in an area where space was at a premium.

“This was an unusual and significant win for Bell Ingram, so we’re very excited that it has now been nominated for an RICS Award – it’s fantastic to have all our efforts recognised in this way,” said Mr Cram.

Mark Currie, head of operations at RHASS said the pedestrian underpass was just one part of a £1.6 million investment of improvements at Ingliston all geared towards sustaining the Royal Highland Show’s position as a world-class event.

Other improvements included the first phase of a two-year remodelling project for the north car park.

The RHASS underpass goes head to head with Wemyss Bay pier walkway.

Fife farmers Moira and David Henderson are also in the running for an award – this time under the Tourism and Leisure category.

Their farm diversification project The Rings, at Chance Inn, by Cupar, has been nominated in recognition of its bespoke role in making rural holiday accommodation more accessible to those with disability.

The award winners will be announced during a ceremony on April 27 at the Sheraton Grand Hotel in Edinburgh.