Nether Lochaber group plans Inchree land buy out

The group behind the proposed community purchase of more than 13 hectares of land at Inchree, near Corran, is looking to take the project to the next stage this week, by holding a public information meeting about the plans.

 

Nether Lochaber Community Association (NLCA) is inviting local residents to a community drop-in day to discuss the group's plans to buy two pieces of land, one from the Forestry Commission and the other from Lochaber Housing Association, near the popular Inchree waterfalls.

 

The public information day will take place at the Nether Lochaber Village Hall on Sunday (April 28), between 10am and 7pm.

 

Gwyneth Jennings, speaking on behalf of the Inchree subgroup of Nether Lochaber Community Association, said that although the proposals are in the initial stages of development they hope for a good turnout to the information session.

 

'On the day, it is hoped that there will be a good attendance of local residents in Nether Lochaber,' she said. 'The proposed format is to provide information and enable residents to discuss and bring their suggestions about the proposal to purchase land on behalf of the local community in Inchree. It is also hoped that the residents will support and volunteer potential skills and specialist knowledge to take this proposal further.'

 

"attachment_181281" "" "225"] The waterfall at Inchree is a popular visitor attraction. 

 

The area is also known for its red squirrel conservation area and woodland walks, which attracts more than 50,00 visitors each year. The association is hoping to enhance visitors' experience with help from the public.

 

"attachment_181280" "" "300"] Some of the land at Inchree subject to the community buy out proposals.

 

In 2013, the Forestry Commission Scotland (FCS) offered the community the buildings near the car park and conservation area. One of the buildings is now in need of renovation, something which the NLCA said could be put to great use for the community with the right funding.

 

A 13 hectare area of land, currently owned by Lochaber Housing Association, has been offered to the community, which has first refusal to buy, and the Inchree subgroup has since formed to garner ideas and suggestions for land use. The team are keen to give the community greater control over the use of the land to the benefit of locals.

 

If you would like to contact the Inchree subgroup, do so by emailing inchreecommunitybuyout@gmail.com