SuppliedScotland’s charity regulator will not intervene in the sale of one of the Isle of Skye’s largest estates despite backlash from residents.
South Sleat Estate, spread across 20,000 acres of land on the island’s southern peninsula, is being sold by owner Clan Donald Lands Trust (CDLT).
The charity was founded through a Clan Donald community buyout of part of the old Macdonald Estate in 1971, which includes Armadale Castle.
Strutt & Parker estate agents have listed the extensive land for offers over £6.75m.
Supplied
SuppliedA closing date of August 28 has been set for the sale of the estate, which CDLT described as a “heartbreaking” decision due to financial challenges.
Sleat Community Trust, among those opposing the sale, said a lack of consultation and community engagement had been “frustrating”.
The group investigated the possibility of a community buyout for Armadale Castle and Gardens, but said it was not viable due to the estimated high costs in repairs.
Donaidh MacDonald, chair of Sleat Community Trust, said: “We want to see Armadale run again as a successful enterprise, bringing jobs and associated business to our communities.
“We want it to be recognised as a place of significant historical value, as well-managed land where people respect, value and celebrate the natural beauty and heritage of the area.”
Dr Andy Williamson, chair of Sleat Community Council, said: “An organisation with the capacity and resources to bring Armadale back to life will breathe life into the local community and economy.
“One that wants a strong relationship with the community means the castle and gardens return to their place at the heart of Sleat.”
The CDLT’s Trustees welcomed the regulator’s findings and said there has been “strong interest” in the estate.
A statement read: “We welcome OSCR’s conclusion, which confirms that the Trustees acted lawfully, prudently, and with proper advice in deciding to market the estate.
“OSCR has closed its inquiry with no grounds for intervention, underlining the necessity of these steps to safeguard the charity’s future.
“We recognise the support from local crofting representatives and Sleat Community Trust that securing a well-funded buyer offers the best route to protecting Armadale’s heritage, supporting crofting, and creating new opportunities for local employment.
“There is strong interest in the estate, with several serious parties expressing enthusiasm for preserving the castle and gardens for future generations.
“The Trustees remain committed to ensuring a museum presence within a financially sustainable Clan Centre model.”
Scotland’s charity regulator OSCR, which opened an inquiry into the sale in April, said: “Having considered the information provided, OSCR has established no grounds to intervene in the decision of the charity trustees to sell its landholdings, including the Sleat Estate and Armadale property assets.
“OSCR will not be intervening in the sale.
“The charity’s trustees have acted within their powers and taken legal and financial advice prior to placing the charity’s landholdings up for sale.”
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