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Community takes over former bull stud farm site

Jennifer Bowey,BBC Scotlandand
Andrew Thomson,BBC Scotland
News imageMaria de la Torre The sun is glinting off a metal gate that encloses a large field. Houses can be seen around the edge and there are bushes and trees.Maria de la Torre
There has been a decade-long campaign to secure the land for the community

A stretch of land on the outskirts of Inverness has been brought into community ownership after a decade-long campaign by a local charity.

Knocknagael Ltd has taken over an area of about 20 acres (8 ha) known as the Smiddy Field, which was previously part of a Scottish government-owned bull stud farm.

The not-for-profit organisation already has planning permission from Highland Council to set up a "green hub" at the site.

It would have 145 allotment plots, a community orchard and recreational areas.

News imageMaria de la Torre There are blue information boards detailing plans for the Green Hub at Knocknagael. There is also some fresh fruit and vegetables on display to illustrate the benefits of allotments.Maria de la Torre
People will have the chance to grow their own food at Knocknagael

There has been a stud farm at Knocknagael since Victorian times with bulls being hired out to crofters across the Highlands and Islands to improve stock quality.

In 2015, the Scottish government decided that the Smiddy Field area of the farm was surplus to requirements and there were fears it would be sold for housing.

A community asset transfer request by Knocknagael Ltd was initially refused but that decision was overturned following a review in 2023.

The planned green hub at the site has had financial backing from the Scottish Land Fund.

News imageMaria de la Torre A group of people, including children, can be seen in the Smiddy Field. The grass is cut short. Houses can be seen at the edge of the field in the background.Maria de la Torre
Archaeological work was done at the Smiddy Field last year

The charity is now planning fundraising events so it can begin transforming the site.

Maria de la Torre, who chairs Knocknagael Ltd, said they were absolutely delighted to take ownership of the Smiddy Field after many years of work.

She said it would provide a great area for people to come together, enjoy being outdoors and grow their own food.

"There is a need for community growing space and allotments," she said.

"There are not that many in Inverness.

"There are also six local schools that are very close to the fields and we'll be able to use the site for education."

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