Recently the Langholm Initiative became aware that Broomholmshiels Cottage was going to be put on the open market and this has offered a unique window of opportunity for the Tarras Valley and meeting our long term aspirations.

The opportunities included retention of an affordable rural rented home for a local resident and also that this property is located at a strategic point location directly opposite what will become one of the main entrances to the nature reserve and offers a brilliant potential for people living and working on the land as we develop things.

Plans are currently being worked on for the development around Broomholmshiels House and steading which will put the cottage in a really important position for the long term development of the reserve.

After board discussions it was agreed that we should discuss the potential sale with Buccleuch and look to pursue the purchase using a combination of our own funds, grant support, donations and loans. Our aim would be to continue the existing tenancy but if and when the existing tenant decided to move on, we would look at what would be the priority needs at that point – this might be maintaining it as an affordable home or it might become a short term let to generate income for the reserve but this would be subject to more consultation at that point.

All these discussions have happened quickly over recent weeks and we are pleased that Buccleuch have been supportive of our interest. We are currently looking to see if the Scottish Land Fund will consider a contribution towards the cost and we have also had an offer of a donation towards the purchase.

If you have any thoughts on this development please let us know!