bi7 Spring issue 2022

SPRING 2022
INSIGHT
Special
Forestry
Feature
P8-9
bellingram.co.uk
Net Zero
Opportunities
in this growing
market P6 -11
Property
Agency team’s
record results for
rural clients P14
Mapping
Spotlight on
our in-house GIS
experts P18
Beavers are back, but what does it mean for UK?
As beavers make a comeback across the countryside, our land management
experts explore the case for and against rewilding P12
Land Management ❘ Estate Agency ❘ Forestry ❘ Design ❘ Utilities ❘ Renewables summer bi2019 ❘ Carbon 5

welcome
news
Welcome
Welcome to the Spring Edition of Insight Magazine.
Unlike this time last year, there’s a great deal to
look forward to over the coming year and at Bell
Ingram we are building for the future with the
announcement of some exciting staff changes
(p4). We also say a fond farewell to our Chairman
Graham Lumby who steps down after 40 years with
the business. Graham has made an outstanding
contribution to the company and his leadership, experience and wise counsel
have been tremendously valuable over that time.
With the easing of the Covid restrictions, we’re planning an action-packed
events programme with our professional staff teed up to attend all the top
rural and agricultural shows and conferences. Remember to look out for the
Bell Ingram gilets and visit our stands to say hello.
As Chairman of Perthshire Agricultural Society, I am particularly pleased that
the agricultural show calendar has been given a green light to proceed after
a hiatus of two years. Unbelievably, this will be the first Perth Show I’ve been
able to organise … despite being in post for three years (surely some kind of
record!).
I’m delighted to announce that our Highland and Aberdeen offices are
partnering with NFU Mutual and Blackadders to hold two exciting events in
spring covering the topics of Agritourism and Succession Planning respectively.
Elsewhere, Bell Ingram will once again host our much-anticipated Insight Day
in Perth where our experts will present on a range of Estate Agency, Forestry,
Design, Renewables and Carbon topics to industry professionals.
The need to address climate change is putting new demands on landowners
and land managers, and in this edition Partner and Head of Carbon Mike
Thompson cuts through the chatter to focus on the very real opportunities
around both Woodland and Peatland restoration (p7).
Assistant Land Agent Matthew Imrie gets a mention for the woodland scheme
he’s delivering on his family farm in a special feature from our friends at
Scottish Forestry which gives an update on the Integrating Trees Network and
how to sign up for their upcoming free events (p8-9).
Still on the subject of carbon, Highland-based architect Murray Fleming takes
us inside a stunning low carbon build he’s created for Forestry and Land
Scotland at Durris, while Northwich-based Land Agent Ben Hewlett examines
Biodiversity Net Gain and its impact on development projects (p6).
Rewilding is always a hot topic in our sector and Charlotte Gilfillan and Carrie
McLennan from our Highland office make the case for and against the reintroduction
of beavers (p12-13).
This issue also features insight into the property and land markets from Head
of Agency Carl Warden and Head of Valuations Sarah Tyson. We also showcase
some of the sales success stories of the last 12 months (p14-15). It’s definitely
been a seller’s market!
While there are still post-pandemic challenges ahead, I am optimistic that 2022
will see improvements for us all and in the meantime, Bell Ingram remains
grateful for the support of our clients, something we never take for granted.
Mark Mitchell, Managing Partner.
*Insight magazine is prepared for general information only. While care is taken in its compilation, neither
Bell Ingram LLP nor its employees or officers accept any liability for the contents or their application to any
individual circumstances. Readers are strongly recommended to contact Bell Ingram to obtain advice
appropriate to their needs.
Contents
4 Learning Milestone: Members of Countryside
Learning Scotland’s Youth Advisory Group are
on course to debut their new film which raises
awareness of training and career opportunities in
the rural sector.
5 Farming for the Future: Bell Ingram underlines
our commitment to the farming community
through a new membership with NFU Scotland.
6 Biodiversity Net Gain: With sustainable
development high on the political agenda
Northwich Land Agent Ben Hewlett examines why
biodiversity is becoming a key driver for developers,
landowners and local planning authorities alike.
6 Legacy of COP26: Changes, even small ones,
can have a big impact as we work towards Carbon
Net Zero targets says Senior Associate Amy Clark
Kennedy.
7 Business of Carbon: Practical strategies are key
to navigating the fast-developing Carbon landscape
and unlocking associated opportunities, advises
Partner and Head of Carbon Mike Thompson.
8 Guest Feature: The Integrating Trees Network
is up and running and going from strength to
strength with a number of farmer-led events
teed up this month, including one featuring Bell
Ingram’s Matthew Imrie.
11 Amazing spaces: Architect Murray Fleming takes
us inside a stunning low carbon office building he’s
designed for Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) at
Durris.
12 Rewilding: Beavers are back but what does that
mean for the UK’s wild spaces? Senior Associate
Charlotte Gilfillan and Assistant Land Agent Carrie
McLennan look at both sides of the rewilding
argument.
14 Special Agents: Partner and Head of Estate
Agency Carl Warden reveals how his team have
achieved record results for clients in a complex
property market.
18 Spotlight on GIS Mapping: Find out how
Bell Ingram’s GIS Mapping experts helped Estate
Agency colleagues achieve a record result for a
farming client
Editorial contacts for Insight
l
l
l
Alison Lowson, Marketing Manager
alison.lowson@bellingram.co.uk
Eleanor Mackay, Digital Marketing Coordinator
eleanor.mackay@bellingram.co.uk
Tel. 01738 621 121 or 07584 093354
Design by Stuart Cameron
design100cam@gmail.com
Graham
Lumby steps
down as
Chairman
in brief
Graham Lumby is to step
down from his role as
Chairman of Bell Ingram.
He will retire from the Board
on 1st April and Head of
Land Management Malcolm
Taylor will move into the role,
supporting Managing Partner
Mark Mitchell and Board
colleagues.
Graham began his career with Bell Ingram in 1982 and was
Managing Director for 23 years before stepping into the role of
Chairman. During this time, he has
overseen the company’s growth into one
of the UK’s leading firms of independent
rural chartered surveyors.
Graham Lumby said: “It’s been a privilege
to have worked for Bell Ingram over the
past 40 years and help manage the
business as it has grown and developed.
I hope I have played my part in both its
current success and contributed to future
l Malcolm Taylor
endeavours.
“I’d also like to thank all the wonderful
colleagues and clients I’ve worked with on many significant and
exciting projects over the years. I’ve really enjoyed my time at Bell
Ingram and wish the company every success for the future.”
Graham is not cutting ties completely and will remain within the
business as a consultant focusing on work for utility and renewables
clients.
Managing Partner Mark Mitchell added: "Graham has made an
outstanding contribution to the company over the last 40 years and
we are deeply grateful for the time and energy he has brought to
the role of Chairman. His experience and wise counsel have been
particularly valuable during the pandemic, and he steps down from
the Board with the warm thanks of his colleagues.”
Graham’s departure heralds a number of staff changes as Bell
Ingram builds for the future.
Ayr Partner Geoff Brown takes on the role of Service Head Utilities
(Scotland) while Neal Salomon, Service Head Utilities (England)
joins the Finance Board alongside Managing Partner Mark Mitchell
and Finance
Partner Gordon
Thoms. Senior
Associate Hugh
Maclean takes
over as head of
the Perth Utilities
department. l Geoff Brown l Neal Saloman l Hugh Maclean
l Geoff Brown l Neal Saloman l Hugh Maclean
Career milestone for
Borzo Taheri
Borzo Taheri has successfully passed his
Assessment of Professional Competence
(APC) to become a qualified chartered
surveyor.
He is formally elected to the class of MRICS
and will be able to use the professional
designation MRICS, an internationally
recognised and respected mark of excellence and integrity.
Based in our Northwich office, Borzo joined Bell Ingram in June
2017 and works across a large spectrum of clients within the
utility and renewables sector.
AGI-Scotland
Annual
Conference
Bell Ingram is one of the
sponsors of this year’s AGI-
Scotland Annual Conference
and our GIS Manager Marcus
Humphrey is a guest speaker.
You don’t have to be a
member to join in this virtual
event on 23-24 February
2022 (mornings only) and
registration is open now. Visit
Scottish Hockey gets
new Property Partner
Bell Ingram has signed in Scottish sport.”
a deal with Scottish
Hockey to become its
‘Property Partner’ for
the next four years.
The new sponsorship
agreement will see the
company sponsor the Senior
Women’s Team and female
youth teams.
As well as helping to nurture
Scotland’s hockey talent,
the partnership will allow
Scottish Hockey to continue to
encourage girls to take up the
sport.
Managing Partner, Mark
Mitchell comments:
“We are delighted to be
teaming up with Scottish
Hockey as their Property
Partner. At Bell Ingram we
understand the value of
education and developing
the next generation of land
agents and rural business
professionals, it is therefore
a natural partnership for our
organisation to support the
development of youth talent
www.agi.org.uk to register
your place.
Running over two mornings
the theme for this year’s
event is Global to Local:
What Scotland can offer
the world and what the
world can offer Scotland.
Hear how Scotland’s GI
community is innovating
to tackle these challenges
and gather insights from the
international community on
the successes that can help
Scotland to achieve its goals.
Andy Tennant, Head of
Performance at Scottish
Hockey adds: “Scottish Hockey
is delighted to partner with
Bell Ingram to support
women’s hockey across all the
age groups in Scotland.
“Partnerships of this nature are
so important for us to sustain
and enhance the quality of
opportunities available to
our most talented athletes
of all ages while attracting
new people to the sport. It’s
great that we have such a
high quality and established
business on board, particularly
one who places important
emphasis on developing
people. Many thanks to Bell
Ingram for their kind support
and we look forward to
working together in the years
ahead.”
You will spot Bell Ingram’s logo
across the team shirts and on
event days at Scottish Hockey’s
home ground at Glasgow
Green.
2 bi2022 bi2019 winter spring spring winter bi2022 bi2019 3

news
land management
Big turnouts
at regional
receptions
Bell Ingram continued our
successful relationship with Scottish
Land and Estates by sponsoring two
Regional Receptions in Aviemore
and Scone Palace respectively at
the end of 2021.
The Highland Reception enjoyed
excellent presentations and debate
covering a broad range of topics,
from Margi Campbell’s interesting
(and entertaining!) tax update, to
integrated land management,
Natural Capital and carbon
opportunities, rural housing and
inspiring the next generation.
The Central Reception saw a big
turnout to hear keynote speaker
Hamish Trench, Chief Executive
at Scottish Land Commission,
examine ‘the role of the landowner’
while SLE Chief Executive Sarah
Jane Laing gave a fascinating policy
insight into Scottish Parliament.
It was clear from both events
the scope of work SLE has been
undertaking on behalf of its
members, just how hugely valuable
and effective that continues to be
and how much support it deserves.
Partner and Vice Chair of SLE
Highland Rob Whitson is pictured
with Mairi Coleman, Chair of the
SLE Highland Committee and
Stephen Young, Head of Policy at
SLE. n
in brief
YAG video is a milestone
for countryside learning
Bell Ingram has
welcomed three new
colleagues on board
as the company
continues to invest in the
development of its teams.
Alex Morrison
has joined the
company as an
Associate, based
in our Forfar
Office. Alex, who
is a fully qualified chartered
surveyor and Agricultural
Valuer, previously worked
for the Duchy of Lancaster
where he was Estates
Director for Yorkshire and
the Foreshore. Prior to this,
Alex worked for Carter Jonas
LLP where he was Assistant
Estate Manager at the
Newby Hall Estate in North
Yorkshire.
Alex can offer advice across
a broad spectrum of topics
including, rural estate
management, heritage
property and tourism/leisure.
Meanwhile, Henry Jamieson
takes up the position of Land
and Business Development
Agent in our Ayr office. Henry
previously worked for family
firm John Marshall & Sons
where he was Contracts
Manager for 18 years. The
Ayrshire-based plant and
fencing contractor is one of
the area’s leading suppliers,
working with firms like
Babcock and Balfour Beattie.
As well as his
Land Agent role,
Henry will be
working to identify
new business
opportunities.
Mark Mitchell, Bell Ingram Managing Partner,
added: “I am delighted to support YAG and
looking forward to welcoming them to
Ingliston and learning more about the video
and their wider remit to help define the future
direction of the charity.”
Based in Perthshire, Countryside Learning
Scotland is an education charity formed in
2003 to meet the need for outdoor learning in
primarily secondary schools.
When members of Countryside
Learning Scotland’s Youth Advisory
Group (YAG) join Bell Ingram on our
Royal Highland Show stand this
summer, it will be a milestone moment in the
drive to nurture Scotland’s future countryside
custodians.
Despite the pandemic, this select group of
young people have been pressing ahead with
their project to create a special video to increase
awareness in secondary schools of training and
careers in the rural sector.
The group is currently putting the finishing
touches to the film, which will be ready to view
in time for the 2022 Royal Highland Show.
David Ritchie, CLS Youth Advisory Group’s Project
Manager, said: “The film covers the results of a
questionnaire looking at barriers to countryside
learning and the opportunities for landbased
careers and it’s filmed and presented by
YAG members themselves.”
www.countrysidelearning.org.uk n
Ian Robertson, CLS Executive Director, said: “We
encompass all areas of the countryside, from
recreation to the environment and traditional
land uses, helping to sustain Scotland’s
countryside through education and providing
opportunity for people from all backgrounds
and abilities.
“We do this by increasing rural opportunity
awareness through outreach events and
teacher training and by partnership building
and rural business training in the local
community. Teachers become our ‘countryside
champions’ and businesses learn to engage
with their next generation of employees.
“For young people we build a progressive
programme of awareness, residential and work
experience events and support them transition
from school to work.”
New starts in Forfar, Ayr and Beauly
Elsewhere, Kylie
Shaw has joined
our Beauly team as
Property Assistant.
A graduate of
the University of
the Highlands and Islands,
where she studied business
administration, Kylie previously
worked as a Lettings and Sales
Negotiator at Your Move. She
is also the office’s first aider.
Commenting on the new
appointments, Managing
Partner Mark Mitchell said:
“We are delighted to welcome
these talented individuals to
the Bell Ingram team. As with
any business, the introduction
of new people and new ideas
is an exciting prospect and I
have no doubt that all three
of our new recruits will add
real value.” n
Bell Ingram cements relationship
with farming community with
NFU Scotland membership
We have shown our commitment to
the Scottish farming community
through a new membership with NFU
Scotland.
Bell Ingram, which specialises in rural land
management, including farm and estate sales,
has joined the NFU Scotland network of farmers
working towards a bright and sustainable future for
Scottish agriculture.
With our roots in rural estate management, we
manage some of UK’s finest agricultural and
sporting estates and currently oversee hundreds
of thousands of hectares of private and corporate
estates across the UK.
Supporting the Scottish farming community is
integral to Bell Ingram’s rural land management
work and, with many of our team members from
agricultural backgrounds, the NFU Scotland
membership only further cements this close
relationship.
The business closely aligns with NFU Scotland’s
values and is committed to promoting sustainable
Scottish farming alongside the union who are
leading the industry on climate change.
Ross-shire Branch Chair, Alasdair Macnab
welcomed the company as professional members
when he presented Bell Ingram’s Rob Whitson with
the official membership certificate.
Rob Whitson, Head of Bell Ingram’s Farm and
Estates Sales Team and Highland Partner,
commented: “There is a real synergy between
Bell Ingram and NFUS and we couldn’t be more
pleased to have joined as corporate members. By
the nature of what we both do, we endeavour to
support the farming community in our regions
by being embedded at a local level, thereby
understanding local pressures and providing
tailored support.”
lasdair Macnab, Chair of the Ross-shire
Branch, said: “It is encouraging that
Acompanies like Bell Ingram are recognising
the benefits of engaging more closely with the
rural community where they operate. NFU Scotland
looks forward to working with Bell Ingram in the
future where its range of expertise and knowledge
can help with our work and providing the best
service to members.”
Johnny Hogg, Group Secretary of the Ross-Shire
branch, added: “We are delighted to welcome the
whole of the Bell Ingram team to the NFUS. Having
worked with Charlotte and Rob in the Beauly office
over a number of years, I have seen first-hand the
care and attention they have provided to a vast
number of our members and it is great that they
have chosen to further strengthen their relationship
with NFU Scotland by joining as Professional
members. We look forward to having them and
others join us at branch meetings going forward.” n
From left: Alasdair Macnab (Chair,
Ross-shire Branch of NFUS), Rob
Whitson (Head of Bell Ingram’s Farm
and Estates Sales Team and Highland
Partner) and Johnny Hogg (Secretary,
Ross-shire Branch of the NFUS),
pictured at Alasdair’s farm to publicise
Bell Ingram’s membership of NFUS.
2022 Agri
Show Diary
Our Land Management
teams will be hitting the
show circuit this season
after a two year hiatus.
Below is a list of the
events our experts will be
attending, so make sure you
say hello.
June
Thursday 23rd – Sunday 26th
Royal Highland Show
July
Friday 1st
GWCT Scottish Game Fair
Friday 15th – Saturday 16th
Caithness Show
Saturday 16th
Kirriemuir Show
Saturday 23rd
Sutherland Show
August
Thursday 4th
Black Isle Show
Friday 5th – Saturday 6th
Moy Highland Field Sports Fair
Friday 5th – Saturday 6th
Perth Show
4 bi2022 spring
winter bi2019 1

carbon
carbon
Biodiversity Net
Gain and its impact
on future infrastructure
and housing projects
by Ben Hewlett
Biodiversity Net Gain is an approach to development
which aims to leave the natural environment in a
measurably better state than beforehand. Implemented
correctly, it should have a positive ecological impact,
delivering improvements through habitat creation or
enhancement.
It’s by no means a new concept, in fact Biodiversity Net Gain has
been best practice among responsible infrastructure companies,
developers and landowners for some time now. Bell Ingram, for
example, has been working for a major utilities client on a project to
provide biodiversity enhancement for a major pipeline development
in the North-West of England. Our land agents have been tasked
with identifying and acquiring nearby land with the potential for
habitat creation and enhancement. The project started in 2020 with
completion scheduled for 2030.
It’s worth noting that Biodiversity Net Gain has been a part
of planning policy in England through the National Planning Policy
Framework for a couple of years, although it has not been widely
adopted.
However, the principle has now become enshrined in law as one of
the more ambitious provisions of the new Environment Act 2021.
This legal requirement, which applies only to England*, requires
new developments to provide a 10% Biodiversity Net Gain to be
maintained for a period of at least 30 years in order to secure
planning permission.
While this condition has no legal effect yet (and will be brought into
force through secondary legislation at a date not yet known), the
provisions are far reaching and complex.
n essence, Biodiversity Net Gain means developers in England
must ensure their projects deliver biodiversity improvements to
Imeet the required 10% increase. To do this, they must evidence
a project’s final Biodiversity Net Gain value using the specified Defra
biodiversity metric if they want their plans to get a green light.
To achieve Biodiversity Net Gain, proposals must follow the
‘mitigation hierarchy’ which compels planning applicants to avoid
harm in the first instance, then mitigate or finally compensate for
losses on-site, off-site or through a combination of the two solutions.
These measures will be implemented in planning conditions.
*The Biodiversity Net Gain principles set out in the Environment
Act only applies to England, but the Scottish Government has
committed to bring forward a new biodiversity strategy in October
and its delivery plan six months later.
With a background in environmental management, Ben Hewlett
is a Land Agent based in Bell Ingram’s Northwich office where he
works on behalf of our utilities clients. n
Peatland opportunities
was fortunate enough to
attend COP26 and came
I home from my day at the
conference considering the
mammoth task before us. It
is not going to be easy but I,
like many people, look to the
next generation, in my case my
small children, and my focus is
on “what can I do?”.
The summit in Glasgow
presented delegates with a
fascinating, if terrifying, picture
of the issues before us, but
the big question is whether
the message about climate
change got through to the
right people?
The UK is a world leader
in many sectors, and the
improvements we make in
technologies and processes
ripple through to other
countries at an incredible rate.
In short, what we do, matters!
s a Land Manager
predominantly covering
AScotland, what is it
that I can do? If I have learned
anything in my last 20 years in
this industry, it’s that changes,
even small ones, can have a
significant impact.
I am in an incredibly lucky
position that I regularly
contribute to projects which
directly help clients reach their
Net Zero targets. The work Bell
Ingram does in conjunction
with renewable schemes
makes a real contribution to
the ambitious government
targets which in turn will make
a difference the world over.
However, it is also the work
we do with our private clients
which is really lighting my
‘non-carbon’ fire. Landowners
have a great opportunity to
lead change, but planning
their next move is crucial, and
Bell Ingram can help with that.
The Carbon Credit market
is developing as we speak,
and here at Bell Ingram we
are keeping a keen eye on
developments and ensuring
that our team is getting the
best training and updates
available. This means we are
able to advise you how to
balance the risk versus the
significant opportunities
available.
One of the key opportunities
we have across the UK is the
restoration of peatland. In
Scotland, peat soils are said
to cover more than 20% of
the country and store around
16,000 million tonnes of
carbon. The frightening part
of this is that over 80% of
our peatlands are thought to
be degraded. Leaving them
degraded will cause damage
to the atmosphere itself.
Restoring these peatlands to
their full potential will have
significant positive impacts
ensuring that we are removing
damaging Greenhouse Gases
from the atmosphere.
By accessing the Scotland
Peatland Action Fund,
managed by NatureScot, you
are able to tap into a twostage
form of funding. Firstly,
funded feasibility studies could
be an option for your property?
Secondly, 100% of the cost
of restoration is available, but
watch closely as there are
tripping hazards.
There are key elements which
you also need to consider,
specifically not only having
control of the land for a
significant enough period
of time, but also taking the
correct steps in the correct
order. The all-important
planning of works in order to
unlock that grant is significant.
Having professional assistance
is the key to unlocking the
value and increasing the
carbon store potential of your
property.
Amy Clark Kennedy is a Land
Agent and Senior Associate
working from Bell Ingram’s Ayr
office on behalf of major utility
companies. n
The Business of
Carbon Net
Zero
Mike Thomson
Partner and Head
of Carbon
Tel: 01738 621 121
There’s no doubt that climate change
and nature decline are the big buzzwords
within the UK’s rural land sector as both
Holyrood and Westminster push to meet
their Carbon Net Zero targets by 2045 and
2050 respectively.
How we address these issues is placing
new demands on the landowners and
land managers who, as custodians of the
landscape, must find a balance between
securing the natural environment for future
generations while supporting the multiple
objectives the land must meet.
While the growing number of government
targets has opened up new opportunities
for the land-based economy, the
application of carbon and ecosystem
investment and natural capital concepts is
still in its infancy and further complicated
by different legislation, aims and targets
both sides of the border.
At Bell Ingram we believe that a practical
land management strategy is the key to
navigating this fast-developing landscape
and unlocking associated opportunities.
Woodland Carbon
Carbon in forestry is the hot topic at
the moment. Not only does planting
trees help to combat global warming
by absorbing carbon dioxide, but it has
the potential to generate a significant
additional income for landowners.
In a nutshell, this is because Woodland
Carbon (and Peatland) is tradable and
Woodland creation.
has a value. Carbon sold when trees are
planted (or Peatland restored) can provide
landowners with additional income. And
verified carbon can be used by business
to offset their UK carbon emissions.
The Woodland Carbon Code (WCC),
which is administered by Scottish
Forestry, is the quality assurance
standard for woodland creation projects
in the UK and generates independently
verified carbon units. Backed by
government, the forest industry and
carbon market experts, the Code is
unique in providing woodland carbon
units right here in the UK.
Bell Ingram has an established track
record of delivering Woodland Carbon
Code (WCC) projects, successfully
implementing both native woodland and
commercial conifer schemes ranging
from a few hectares to many hundreds.
From woodland creation through to longterm
forest management and timber
harvesting, our carbon team can offer a
comprehensive range of environmental
services and have the expertise to ensure
the carbon opportunity in your new
investment is developed to maximise
potential..
Peatland Restoration
Peatland is an excellent carbon store.
The hydrology of peatland, in its natural
waterlogged state, prevents carbon
within organic matter at the surface
oxidising and being released as carbon
dioxide. Restoration is crucial as degraded
peatland has been contributing to rising
carbon emissions.
While woodland creation carbon work
is already well established, Peatland
Restoration is less advanced and although
there are many schemes (and even more
planned) the general belief is that there
will be major changes to come in order
to make this more appealing/available in
the future.
Like the Woodland Carbon Code, the
Peatland Code is a voluntary certification
standard designed to provide assurances
to carbon market buyers that the climate
benefits being sold are real, quantifiable,
additional and permanent.
The Code was developed in 2015 and
is managed by the IUCN Peatland
Programme. The reduction in carbon
emissions by peatland restoration is
quantified, validated, and verified in a
similar way to the Woodland Carbon
Code.
Get in touch
Done right, these new natural capital
markets offer exciting opportunities.
However, carbon funding is a fast-moving
and developing area and we strongly
advise both buyers and sellers of carbon
to take professional advice. Please
contact Partner and Head of Carbon
Mike Thompson at Bell Ingram for more
information. Tel. 01738 621 121 or email
mike.thompson@bellingram.co.uk
62 bi2019 bi2022 winter spring winter spring bi2019 bi2022 97
Peatland
restoration.

carbon
carbon
Resources
As the network has developed, more resources have been created to help
land managers take that next step to planting trees on their land. Simplified
woodland creation guidance, small farm loan scheme, FAS funding to name
but a few and most of all, having access to other farmers and crofters who
can share their practical knowledge to those considering woodland creation on
whatever scale. This information is available online at www.forestry.gov.scot and
www.fas.scot
Scottish Forestry continues
to forge stronger working
relationships with farmers through
A video featuring Bell Ingram’s Matthew Imrie, Hillhead Farm, Torrance, one of the host
farmers, discussing the decision to plant trees on his family farm and key considerations
others farmers should be aware of. Watch it at www.farmingforabetterclimate.org/
integrating-trees-on-your-land
Everyone is welcome to book onto these free virtual online events. This is a farmer
and crofter-led network so please get in touch and let the organisers know what
topics you want to discuss. Drop lyn.white@forestry.gov.scot or Hilary.Grant@gov.scot
an email. Events coming up:
Tea and Trees with Crofters: Thursday 17th February, 6 – 7pm
A chance to chat about planting trees on your croft - come and share your experiences
and ask your questions. This discussion group will bring crofters together to chat
about woodland creation projects along with specialists from Scottish Forestry and
The Woodland Trust, Croft Woodland Project. This will be an informal networking
event and a chance to make connections and chat with other crofters to share
your experiences and knowledge. Join with a cup of tea to discuss the objectives,
challenges and potential for integrating trees on crofts. Look out for booking details
on the Integrating Trees Network website www.farmingforabetterclimate.org
The Integrating Trees Network is
up and running and going from
strength to strength.
This farmer and crofter-led
initiative is supported by Scottish
Forestry and the Scottish
Government. Its aim is to build
up a strong network of farm
woodland demonstration sites
across Scotland, with the hosts
showcasing how growing trees
has helped their business.
Sharing experiences and hearing
from those who are actually
doing it – including
Bell Ingram’s Matthew Imrie -
is all part of the ever growing
Integrating Trees Network. The
initiative has now run ten virtual
events, attracting farmers and
crofters from all over Scotland.
The network has built up a strong
network of farm woodland demonstration
sites across Scotland.
There are six farm woodland
demonstration sites across Scotland,
hosted by:
• Andrew Adamson of Messrs W
Laird & Son, Netherurd Home Farm,
Peeblesshire.
• Matthew Imrie (Bell Ingram), Hillhead
Farm, Torrance.
• Andrew and Debbie Duffus, Mains of
Auchriachan, Tomintoul.
• Andrew Whiteford, Burnfoot and
Ulzieside Farm, Sanquhar.
• The Barbour family, Mains of Fincastle,
Pitlochry.
• The Lockett family, Knockbain Farm,
Dingwall.
These fantastic farming hosts have
shared their experiences along with a
number of key practical messages for
others thinking of planting trees. These
are:
• Use well known contractors - not always
the cheapest but being recommended
by others shows they know their job.
• Environment - you have to work with
what’s on the ground, don’t try and
change it too much or work against it.
• You can do the work yourself and you
don’t need to rely on contractors. It can
be a steep learning curve and there
are challenges. It just takes time and
planning, but there is support out there.
• Understand your reasons for wanting
to plant trees on your land and your
business priorities.
• Do your research: evaluate your land
and monitor your farm to find out what
areas are under performing for livestock
but could still be suitable for planting
trees.
Bell Ingram’s Matthew
Imrie is a big supporter
of the Integrating Trees
Network. He is pictured
with his father John
and brother Ben on the
family farm outside
Glasgow where he is coordinating
a woodland
creation scheme.
• Make sure you consider whether
planting trees will complement your
existing farm enterprises.
• Treat your woodland as another crop,
making sure you are managing it
properly.
• Involve the local community as much
as possible in planning - that helps to
defuse any potential issues.
• Ask whether having trees on the farm
will help diversify the nature of the
business to become more adaptable,
and in the future will it provide much
needed shelter.
• Create a habitat for wildlife: life’s pretty
boring without wildlife! n
Woodland Creation for Biodiversity: What needs to be considered? Discussing the
ground examples, Thursday, 24th February 7 – 8pm
Come along and hear from Colin Edwards, Environment Policy Advisor, Scottish
Forestry, on how to create woodland to meet your biodiversity objectives. Looking
at basic principles of site selection, key species to plant, integration of open habitat
and creation of future habitat to maximise your biodiversity benefits. Hear and
discuss with our land managers their practical experiences of creating, woodland
for biodiversity. Hosts for the night are Andrew Barbour, Mains of Fincastle, Pitlochry
and Richard Lockett, Knockbain, Dingwall. There will also be a representative
from, Woodland Trust. Booking details on the Integrating Trees Network website
www.farmingforabetterclimate.org
8 bi2022 spring spring winter bi2022 bi2019 93
Copyright Crown

news
Saddling up to
support Netherton
Bell Ingram has saddled up to
support an equestrian centre whose
facilities were partly destroyed by fire in
2019.
Supporting
the ALBAS
in brief
Bell Ingram is delighted
to support Lantra
Scotland’s ALBAS
Awards by coming
on board as one of the main
sponsors of the 2022 event.
The prestigious ALBAS
(Awards for Land-based and
Aquaculture Skills) recognise
and celebrate the
achievements of trainees in
Scotland’s rural sector, as well
as encouraging employers to
invest in the next generation
of talent.
Not only do they highlight
the incredible individuals
who work within our landbased,
aquaculture and
environmental conservation
industries, but they also
promote the many rewarding
careers available.
The 2022 awards are
now underway, with the
judges looking at all the
nominations to decide who
to shortlist.
Bell Ingram Highland
Partner Rob Whitson
said: “Supporting Lantra’s
ALBAS awards is a unique
opportunity to help celebrate
the achievements of
Scotland’s top trainees and
training programmes.”
The awards ceremony is
being held in the DoubleTree
by Hilton Hotel Dunblane
Hydro on Thursday 3rd March
The company has sponsored both a
jump and advertising board at the newly
constructed arena at Netherton Equestrian,
near Bridge of Earn, where owners the Wilkie
family are working hard to build two new
indoor schools and other amazing facilities.
Find out more at www.
nethertonequestrian.co.uk
RSABI Supporters
Scheme
Bell Ingram is once again
supporting farmers’ charity
RSABI through its corporate
supporters’ scheme.
By joining the scheme, the company
will support 10-12 counselling sessions for a farmer struggling
with poor mental health helping them to move forward.
RASABI exists to support people in Scottish agriculture
by providing important emotional, practical and financial
assistance to individuals and their families across the sector.
Find out more at www.rsabi.org.uk n
2022, hosted by farmer and
stand-up comedian, Jim
Smith.
Lantra is one of the leading
awarding bodies for landbased
industries in both
the UK and the Republic
of Ireland. It develops
quality training courses
and nationally recognised
qualifications that are
delivered through a national
network of training Provider
Partners.
Find out more at
www.lantra.co.uk
Don’t miss the
Scottish deadlines
Basic Payment Scheme - To
apply and claim your entitlements,
you must submit a Single
Application Form. This is normally
sent to you in March, unless you
are a new claimant or did not
claim the previous year. The closing
date for the Single Application
Form is 15th May 2022.
Less Favoured Area Support
Scheme (LFASS) - You can
claim LFASS through your Single
Application Form during the
application window, from 16th
March to 15th May 2022.
Agri-Environment Climate
Scheme - The 2022 Agri-
Environment Climate Scheme
application round opened on
Monday 24th January and will
close on Friday 29th April 2022
Scottish Suckler Beef Support
Scheme (Mainland and
Islands) - Claims can be made
throughout the year and there is
no limit to the number of claims
you can make by the close of the
scheme year on 31st December
2022.
Scottish Upland Sheep
Support Scheme - Claims can
be made from 1st September
2022 and there is no limit to the
number of claims you can make
until the close of the application
period on 30 November 2022.
If you would like to hear more
about our applications and
schemes advice services,
contact your local Bell Ingram
office for no obligation chat
about your situation.
Durris depot
reflects the future
of low carbon
workplace builds
Designing a
low carbon
office for
Forestry
and Land
Scotland
(FLS) has
been a
hugely rewarding experience
for Murray Fleming, Bell Ingram
Design’s senior architect.
He wanted to create an
exemplar for his clients,
who are strongly focused on
sustainability as they strive to
become a greener organisation
and ultimately reach their Net
Zero goal.
The build, which is located
at FLS’s Durris Depot near
Banchory, provided the
opportunity to deliver an
optimised workplace, using
sustainable materials and
minimising energy consumption.
Murray Fleming says:
“Forestry and Land Scotland’s
commitment to making its
infrastructure more sustainable
meant it was extremely
important for BID to deliver
a sustainable and inclusive
workplace which embedded
our client’s green principles in
its design.
“In many ways Durris offers
a glimpse into the future
of workplace construction.
Unfortunately, builds like this
are still the exception, but by
highlighting the benefits of
using sustainable materials,
making renewable energy
choices and incorporating
smarter working principles,
we hope to encourage others
in the sector to consider such
techniques.”
A flexible design has enabled
Bell Ingram Design to embrace
the Civil Service’s ‘smarter
working’ principles of using
technology, property and
leadership to give workers more
flexibility over how, when and
where they work.
There are no allocated desks
or fixed computers, instead
the office accommodation at
Durris allows for quick laptop
connection at any workstation
by any user. To facilitate a
‘clear desk’ policy, lockers are
provided for personal staff
belongings. In addition, all
desks are ‘rise and fall’ allowing
a personalised set-up from
sitting to standing.
cell spray insulation provides
exceptional air tightness.
Murray used aluminium
clad timber windows and
doors which combined the
low embodied energy of
timber and the long-term
performance of aluminium
with its ability to recycle
at end of building's life.
Aluminium profile sheeting
was used on the roof as
well, again for its long term
performance and recycling
credentials.
To minimise energy
consumption, the orientation
and glazing were designed to
maximise passive solar energy
gains, with external louvres
providing protection from
summer overheating. Summer
cooling is enhanced by the
inclusion of sliding doors to
the staff room and main office.
All lighting is LED although
the high levels of daylighting
reduces the need for artificial
lighting.
Heating is provided by an air
source pump also serving
water based underfloor
heating. With 100% renewable
electricity available this
approach allows the building
to operate with a fully
renewable energy source.
Along with the construction of
the new building, the brief also
included extensive upgrades
to the external yard areas to
provide additional parking and
improvements to the day-today
operation of the depot. n
10 bi2022 spring spring winter bi2022 bi2019 11 3
E
Murray Fleming
Associate Design
Highlands
Tel: 01463 717 799
lsewhere, breakout areas
are provided for casual
one-to-one meetings
and ‘touch down’ short period
use, and an external terrace
further extends the flexibility
of the working environment.
A key element in the build
was the choice of materials.
Sustainably sourced larch
cladding was the low energy
choice for the timber exterior,
while castor-oil-based open
carbon
If you are considering a
building project of any size,
Bell Ingram Design is on
hand to provide the expert
advice to help you achieve
your goals. Email design@
bellingram.co.uk

land management
land management
Devil’s Advocate: Making the case for and against
the reintroduction of beavers
Carrie McLennan
There’s no doubt that beaver
reintroduction has caused
plenty of conflict between
conservationists and land
managers. Depending which
side of the fence you’re on,
you either love them or hate them …
and in my line of work, it tends to be the
latter.
conservationists could be the key to
helping both sides understand the
species and its management options.
There are a number of effective
measures which can mitigate the
negative impacts of the species and
allow for landowners and beavers to
coexist. Flow devices, for example,
alleviate the impacts of beaver-related
flooding issues by allowing the flow of
water to continue in a waterway where
dams are present.
Recent developments regarding
translocation also allow for beavers to
be relocated, under a protected species
licence through NatureScot to other
parts of Scotland if they are causing
a disturbance to land managers and
prime agricultural land. Previously the
only option was to relocate beavers
to the established trial population in
Knapdale, or to move them to England.
This means beavers can now be moved
to places where they will benefit nature
and the environment, reduce the risk of
damage to agricultural enterprises, and
crucially, help resolve conflict between
key stakeholders.
with society since 1922, offering one
of the best examples of the benefits
brought by reintroducing a lost species.
There is no reason why this cannot be
the case in Scotland, we just need to
better understand the benefits that
keystone species such as the beaver
can bring, and utilise the management
options available. n
However, it is important to look at
re-introduction with an open mind, as
beavers have the potential to bring a
whole host of environmental, economic,
and social benefits. Right now, this is
more important than ever, and keystone
species such as the beaver have the
power to define entire ecosystems, so
maybe it is time that we viewed them in
a different light?
Indeed, this is about more than just
re-introducing an extinct species, it’s
about restoring lost ecosystems. Beavers
are called ecosystem engineers for good
reason as they have a profound impact
on their surroundings and possess the
ability to restructure their environment
through the creation of new habitats,
increasing biodiversity, and restoring
ecosystem functionality.
I believe that improved communication
between stakeholders and
We should also bear in mind that
beavers can and do coexist with
people. This has been evident
elsewhere in Europe, where the
species reintroduction in Sweden has
been commended as one of the most
successful ever, as they have coexisted
Evidence of beaver
activity near Clunie
Loch in Perthshire
In 2009 the Scottish Wildlife
Trust, in partnership with the
Royal Zoological Society of
Scotland and Forestry and Land
Scotland, launched the first
beaver re-introduction trial at
Knapdale Forest in Argyll.
The trial had mixed results but
through further re-introductions
elsewhere, both legally and illegally,
Scotland’s beaver population is now
reaching record levels.
This increase in numbers has
prompted much controversy
and debate, especially with the
announcement of a new beaver
release site being approved at Argaty,
near Doune, which is the first since
Knapdale,
Against this backdrop, Senior
Associate Charlotte Gilfillan and
Assistant Land Agent Carrie McLennan
from our Highland Office explore both
sides of the argument and discuss the
future of beavers in Scotland.
Hunted to
extinction around
400 years ago,
beavers were once
a native species
Charlotte Gilfillan
The reintroduction of the beaver in the UK has been
hailed a huge success by conservationists and rewilders,
with numbers tripling in Scotland over the last
three years.
While I recognise there are some important ecological
benefits to the return of beavers, it has come at a huge cost. From
destruction of arable crops through blocking drains and ditches,
burrowing through flood defences, felling of trees, flooding of
commercial forestry plantations, the list goes on. Even designated
sites have been impacted in some areas, with beavers raising
water levels sufficiently to threaten the site's favourable status.
Infrastructure hasn’t escaped unscathed either, with roads and
railways being damaged by burrowing, damming and flooding.
Last year Network Rail announced they had successfully built
‘Scotland’s first beaver tunnel’ in a culvert under the Highland line
in Perthshire, to much fanfare. What they didn’t highlight was that
it took several teams from Network Rail plus outside contractors
and specialists many months of work to resolve the problem of
the dammed culvert and build the tunnel, all at significant cost to
the taxpayer.
Although mitigation measures like flow devices, translocation and
tree protection are available, there are still costs attached to these
options. One of the most effective tools in managing beavers,
particularly around arable crops, is a licence for lethal control.
The future of NatureScot’s Beaver Management Framework and
licensing system, which includes lethal control, was subject to
judicial review last year, following a legal challenge by Trees for
Life. The majority of the complaints were thankfully dismissed
but it is vital that this licence remains available as numbers and
impacts of beavers increase.
The re-introduction of any species will inevitably bring its own set
of unique challenges, particularly those that have been extinct
for hundreds of years and whose natural range and landscape
is now completely managed. Trials are therefore imperative to
determine the feasibility of any re-introduction and to consider
the consequences, both intended and unintended.
Given the uncertain success of the initial trial at Knapdale, where
the population failed to grow, there is a question of whether
future legal re-introductions would have been supported by
the Scottish Government. However, by the time the trial results
were available many beavers had already been released illegally
by private individuals in Perthshire, deliberately and without
repercussion, leaving farmers and landowners to pick up the cost.
With the beaver then subsequently becoming a protected species
in 2019, this undoubtedly fuelled the debate further and set a
dangerous precedent for future re-introductions.
Driven by the Climate Emergency and Biodiversity Crisis, species
re-introduction has never been more topical or more polarised.
If the re-introduction of beavers in Scotland is to be used as a
benchmark against which other proposed re-introductions are
considered, then I have a gnawing feeling we could be in serious
trouble. Ultimately the question remains, do the benefits really
outweigh the costs - I remain unconvinced. n
in Scotland
12 bi2022 spring spring winter bi2022 bi2019 13 5

property
property
Achieving record
results for our
clients in a complex
property market
Rural expertise pays
dividends for our clients
By Carl Warden, Property Partner
Crianlarich, Stirlingshire
An amenity farm, about 216 acres,
with principle farmhouse, a range of
farm buildings and sporting rights.
Offers over £550,000
Methven, Perthshire
An amenity farm, about 149 acres,
principle farmhouse, detached cottage,
farm buildings, sporting rights.
Offers over £1,500,000
Milnathort, Kinross-shire
Luxury detached family home with
latest energy saving techniques and
smart technology.
Fixed Price £509,000
Despite the uncertainties surrounding the Covid-19 crisis and ever-changing
guidelines for the industry, Bell Ingram’s property team has enjoyed huge
success over the last two years.
Repeated lockdowns have seen us all spend more time in our homes, which
has really focussed the mind of buyers on what they truly want and need from
their spaces, and as a result we are seeing unprecedented demand for rural
property with ample green space as well as additional living space.
Such high demand coupled with a shortage of stock has driven up valuations
with residential properties achieving anything between 5% to 30% over the
asking price, and I expect this upward trend to continue into 2022.
The land and farm sales markets are also highly competitive, and our wellplaced
agents have experienced great results in these markets. As rural
business experts, Bell Ingram agents understand the rural market and are
able to take a creative approach to selling to achieve the best results for our
clients.
Being part of a firm that includes, valuations, land management, forestry,
mapping and planning pays dividends. For example, our Perthshire agents
recently achieved 25% over the asking price for a farming client by separating
land for forestry and securing permissions for property development.
Meanwhile, a recent large estate sale achieved 13.5% over the asking price of
£1.6million following 173 viewings and 50 offers for our client.
With so much opportunity in the market currently, now is a favourable time
to sell. But for buyers it is not always the ones with deepest pockets who are
coming out on top! Buyers who have all their ducks in a row, and who are
outwith chains, are often more successful than the highest bidder in securing
their dream home.
Because we ask our buyers the right questions, we always secure the best
deal for our clients. We would therefore recommend that anyone who is
thinking of selling their rural property to get in touch with our agents as soon
as possible to discuss your options.
If you are considering selling your home, farm or estate, our dedicated team
is on hand to provide the expert advice you need. Contact Carl Warden
on 01738 621121 or email carl.warden@bellingram.co.uk.
Dornoch, Sutherland
Diversified arable farm, about 155
acres, farmhouse, farm buildings,
commercial trout lochs, caravan site
and golf driving range.
Offers over £850,000
Oban, Argyll & Bute
Unique beachfront property with open
views across to the isles of Mull and
Lismore.
Offers over £875,000
Logierait, Perthshire
Residential Estate, about 275 acres,
principle house, two cottages, grazing
land, woodland and salmon fishing
rights.
Offers over £1,600,000
Bankfoot, Perthshire
Substantial stone built villa in elevated
grounds of 0.6 acres with panoramic
country views.
Offers over £475,000
Logierait, Perthshire
A unique substantial barn conversion,
with typical period features, in a
stunning elevated position.
Offers over £625,000
Balcraig, Perthshire
A substantial, beautifully presented
family home in over 0.4 acres of
grounds with views over the golf
course to the hills beyond.
Offers over £625,000
14 bi2022 spring spring winter bi2022 bi2019 153

land management
estate agency
What is rural land worth?
Land values in Scotland and the North of England
of surrounding land), the hill land with
grazing, and the salmon fishing rights.
This highly successful strategy generated
173 viewings, which required careful
organisation by our Agency team as Covid
restrictions were still in place!
Sarah Tyson
Partner and Head of
Valuations
sarah.tyson@
bellingram.co.uk
Bell Ingram’s guide to average
rural land values in Scotland
and the North of England
has been updated and
proves a useful tool for
many involved with land
transactions.
In reviewing the figures, Sarah Tyson,
Head of Valuations, said:
“Average arable land and the best
pasture land values have been relatively
steady but there is still limited supply
and continuing demand, especially
where neighbours have the chance
to buy. Borrowers are looking to take
advantage of current low interest rates
whilst they can and certainly AMC
lending has seen a lot of fixed loan rate
being very popular.
“The forestry sector remains very
strong with good timber markets. The
unprecedented demand from investors
for land suitable for tree planting
continues and is further fuelled due to
the impact of Natural Capital, including
peatland restoration and rewilding
projects, although values are very site
specific (and can seem eye watering),
making it difficult to apply averages.
“Values for sporting interests are steady,
but again vary depending upon the
particular estate, location and facilities.
Scotland has seen an increase in estate
sales to those looking for forestry/Natural
Capital interests and these examples of
land use bring different dimensions, and,
approach to prices. Nevertheless, deer
management is still essential, and fishers
are ever hopeful of a catch!”
Note: The figures quoted provide general indications of value only and should not be relied upon. If
you have a property which needs an updated valuation for any reason, get in touch and one of our
team of RICS Registered Valuers or Sales Agents will be able to assist. n
Bare Land Capital Values,Scotland* £/per acre (min) £/per acre (max)
Best Arable 8,000 17,000
Secondary Arable 5,000 8,000
LFA / Low Grade Arable 3,000 5,000
Temporary Grass / Silage 2,500 5,000
Permanent Pasture 1,500 4,000
Rough Grazing 450 1,000
Hill 50 750
*excluding any forestry planting premium
Existing Forestry (crop and solum) * £/ per ha (min) £/per ha (max)
Productive Conifer Woodland 6,000 16,000
Pre-­‐Productive Conifer Woodland 3,000 6,000
Native/ broadleaf/ retention woodland 3,000 8,000
*these exclude any carbon credit/ peatland sums which may apply
Sporting Values, Scotland
Red Deer Stags (per head) 12,000 40,000
Driven Grouse (per brace) 3,500 5,000
Salmon (per fish) 2,500 7,000
Land Values -­‐ North of England* £/per acre (min) £/per acre (max)
Best Arable 9,000 15,000
Secondary Arable 7,500 10,000
Permanent Pasture 5,000 8,000
Rough Grazing 3,000 6,500
Hill 1,500 2,500
*excluding any forestry planting premium
Existing Forestry (crop and solum) * £/ per ha (min) £/per ha (max)
Productive Conifer Woodland 6,000 16,000
Pre-­‐Productive Conifer Woodland 3,000 6,000
Native/ broadleaf/ retention woodland 3,000 8,000
*these exclude any carbon credit/peatland sums which may apply
Perthshire estate achieved
significantly over the
asking price after being
offered in five separate lots
The successful sale of a compact rural
Estate was one of the highlights of 2021
for Carl Warden, Partner and Head of
Estate Agency.
The 275 acre Perthshire
property, which centred
around a nine-bedroom
principal house, parts of
which dated back to the
1500s, had been in the
same family for a number
of generations.
With outstanding views
over River Tay to the hills
beyond, the property
also encompassed two
detached cottages,
grazing land, salmon
fishing rights and
woodland. Interestingly,
Fifty offers were
received in total
and the Estate was
eventually sold in
three lots achieving
significantly above
the initial listing
at offers over £1.6
million.
the top section of the Estate was subject
to an SSSI as an important breeding
ground for the Northern Blue Damselfly.
On the death of the
last of the family, the
Executors asked Bell
Ingram to put the Estate
to the open market and
it generated significant
interest when it was
launched for sale in
springtime.
To achieve the best
possible outcome for our
client, it was decided
to offer the Estate both
as a whole and also as
five separate lots - each
of the three residential
properties (with an area
It went to a closing date after seven
weeks and interested parties were asked
to submit two offers each – one covering
a complete ‘lot’ and a second offer with
their ‘wish list’.
Fifty offers were received in total and the
Estate was eventually sold in three lots
achieving significantly above the initial
listing at offers over £1.6 million.
Carl Warden said: “This was a fantastic sale
to be involved with and the complexity of
the situation demonstrated Bell Ingram’s
range of expertise and our ability to add
value to your property sale.
“When selling a property like this, it is vital
that you employ a professional agent who
can navigate the market with experience
and sensitivity.
“Our sales team can offer a full range
of marketing strategies and create a
bespoke blueprint to deliver maximum
exposure which could result in additional
offers and a higher value being attained.
“Looking ahead to the rest of 2022, we
predict clients who bring land to the
market will be rewarded with strong
prices.”
If you are considering an Estate sale, our
dedicated team is on hand to provide the
expert advice you need to help achieve
the best possible result. Contact Carl
Warden on 01738 621 121 or email carl.
warden@bellingram.co.uk
16 bi2022 spring spring winter bi2022 bi2019 171

GIS mapping
land GIS management
mapping
Spotlight on our
GIS Mapping Service
Bell Ingram’s GIS experts provide high quality plans and
maps for use in a variety of situations.
Based in our Perth office, GIS Manager Marcus Humphrey
works closely with GIS Technician Mhairi Walker, to support
clients and colleagues across a range of land management
sectors, including forestry, utilities and renewables, and
estate agency.
Says Marcus Humphrey: “Our dedicated team, which
is enhanced by a number of colleagues with mapping
skills, fully understands the requirements of the rural land
management sector, its changing requirements and the
organisations within it,
“We combine current GIS technologies with the most
relevant datasets to deliver a high-quality mapping service
and no matter the size or scale of the project we have both
the agility and ability to provide a quick turnaround when
deadlines are at stake.”
Mapping services
• Land Registry
compliant title plans
• Lease plans
• Wayleave, servitude
and easement plans
• Land referencing
• Geo-referencing
• Feasibility studies
• Farms & Estate
mapping
• Data cleansing
• Database management
• Bespoke GIS solutions
GIS Manager Marcus Humphrey and
GIS Technician Mhairi Walker.
• Large scale utility
project mapping
• Forestry mapping
• Historical mapping
analysis
• Web-GIS applications
• 3D visualisations and
modelling
• GPS Surveys
• Drone Surveys
Data Management Services
• GIS transformation
• Geographic data
science
Get In Touch: For more information, please contact GIS
Manager Marcus Humphrey. 01728 621 121 or
marcus.humphrey@bellingram.co.uk
Bell Ingram’s
multi-service
approach
achieves
record price
for farmer
Bell Ingram’s
Estate Agency
team drew on
the expertise
of colleagues
from the
company’s
GIS Mapping,
Forestry and Planning
departments to achieve a record
result for a farming client.
Located on the edge of the
very buoyant Glasgow market,
the 380-acre Bandominie
Farm consisted of a farmhouse
with outbuildings, a modern
bungalow and a large area of
potential forestry land.
The owner, who had lived
there all his life, occupied
the modern bungalow with
his own family, while his
elderly parents remained in
the original farmhouse,
which was in need of
considerable modernisation
and renovation.
To achieve the best possible
price for our client, we
advised that breaking the
farm into separate parts would
be the most lucrative way
forward.
The first step in this process was
to map the property thoroughly
and our in-house GIS Mapping
Department was tasked with
providing three mapped areas
of land – 275 acres for forestry
planting, 19 acres to go with
the old farmhouse and its
considerable outbuildings, and
a further 2.5 acres of paddock
to be sold with the modern
bungalow.
Bell Ingram’s Planning
Department then made
an application to have the
Section 75 planning condition
removed from the farm
which allowed us to sell
the residential properties
separately.
The two residential properties
were listed at £200k for the
farmhouse, outbuildings and
19 acres, while the modern
bungalow was put to the market
at £250k with the paddocks and
two small stables.
The attractive guide price,
coupled with the lack of
available stock in the Glasgow
area, generated just short
of 200 enquiries which
resulted in 121 viewings being
arranged in only six working
days. A closing date saw both
properties sold to the same
buyer, achieving significantly
above the initial listing.
However, it was the Forestry
potential of the sale which
ultimately generated the
best outcome. Bell Ingram’s
Forestry Department
approached their private
clients offering the 275
acres for an asking price in
the region of £450,000 to
£650,000, and our client
was rather overwhelmed
when a closing date achieved
significantly above the asking
price!
Head of Estate Agency Carl
Warden said: “Bandominie is
a great example of why it can
make sense to break complex
properties down into separate
components if you want to
achieve the best possible
price. It also underlines why it’s
important to employ an agent
with rural land and business
experience who can draw on a
range of expertise to add value
to the sale.”
If you are considering selling
your farm, our dedicated team
is on hand to provide the
expert advice you need
to help achieve the best
possible result. Contact
Carl Warden on 01738 621
121 or email carl.warden@
bellingram.co.uk
18 bi2022 spring spring bi2022 19

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