Property Statement 2016 The National Trust for Scotland for Places of Historic Interest and Natural Beauty is a charity registered in Scotland, Charity Number SC 007410
Contents CONTENTS 2 LIST OF FIGURES, MAPS AND ILLUSTRATIONS 3 SUMMARY TABLE 4 INTRODUCTION 5 STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE 6 Summary 6 Natural Heritage 7 Cultural Heritage 7 Landscape 8 Visitors 9 Social and Economic 9 VISION STATEMENT 12 STATEMENT OF INTENT 13 CONSULTED 15 2 P a g e
List of Figures, Maps and Illustrations Figure 1 Figure 2 Figure 3 Figure 4 Figure 5 Figure 6 Figure 7 Location of Glencoe Glencoe boundary Glencoe Site of Special Scientific Interest Glencoe Special Area of Conservation Glencoe Geological Conservation Review Sites National Scenic Area Ben Nevis and Glencoe Glen Etive and Glen Fyne Special Protection Area, Golden eagle 3 P a g e
Summary Table NTS Group Property Manager Address Grid Reference Total area Acquisition Dates Inalienable Designations Plan produced by Countryside and Islands Scott McCombie National Trust for Scotland Visitor Centre Glencoe Argyll PH49 4LA NN 128 565 (Visitor Centre) 5680 ha 1936: Signal Rock, Strone, Clachaig and Achtriochtan 1937: Dalness 1973: Achnacon 1980: Strips at Torrenn 1993: An Torr 1995: Campsite Yes 5642 ha Ben Nevis and Glencoe National Scenic Area 2 Sites of Special Scientific Interest: Glen Coe and Eas Na Broige Glen Coe Special Area of Conservation Glen Etive and Glen Fyne Special Protection Area Golden Eagle 8 Geological Conservation Review Sites Lochaber Geopark C(S) Listed Buildings: Achnacon House And Former Barn, The Leishman Centre Paula Whitelaw Lead Property Planner Plan Approval Date 14 th June 2016 4 P a g e
Introduction Glencoe is situated south of Fort William in Lochaber. The property is made up of two main areas, Glencoe and Dalness (which includes Glen Etive), and covers 5680 hectares. The property was acquired in several stages, starting with Clachaig, Achtriochtan and Strone in 1936 then part of the Dalness estate in 1937, which included the whole of the south side of Glencoe east to Buachaille Etive Mor. Achnacon and Meall Mor followed in 1973, An Torr in 1993, and finally the former Forestry Commission Scotland campsite at Inverigan in 1995. The 1936 and 1937 acquisitions were primarily as a result of financial support from the Scottish Mountaineering Club, and in particular from an anonymous donor, later revealed to be its president, Percy Unna. Unna s wishes for future management of the property have become known as the Unna Principles, providing guidance for the National Trust for Scotland (the Trust) in the management of this and the other mountainous properties in its care, now enshrined in the Trust s Wild Land Policy. This property is a major tourist attraction, offering spectacular scenery, excellent mountaineering and is renowned as the site of the Massacre of the MacDonalds of Glencoe by government troops in 1692. Glencoe is covered by a range of designations that reflect the national and international importance of this property. The property falls within the Ben Nevis and Glencoe National Scenic Area (NSA), which reflects the landscape value of the property. It also contains the Glencoe Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and the Eas na Broige SSSI. The Glencoe Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and Glen Etive and Glen Fyne Special Protection Area (SPA) also cover the property, as do eight Geological Conservation Review (GCR) sites. Finally, the property contains a C(s) listed building. The property currently runs at a significant surplus and has a very small endowment. 5643 hectares of the property have been declared inalienable. 5 P a g e
Statement of Significance Summary The significance of Glencoe lies predominantly in its dramatic mountainous landscape and its associations with the infamous massacre; the wildness and atmosphere of the place evoking memories of one of the most notorious episodes in Scottish history. Its natural heritage is of international significance and there is an international awareness of the cultural heritage and history of the property, most notably the Glencoe massacre of 1692. The property encompasses some of the most spectacular and accessible mountain scenery in Scotland and as a result is one of the most popular locations for walking and mountaineering in the country. It is also a must see on the tourist trail to the Highlands. Glencoe provides one of the best known and most dramatic roadside landscapes in Europe, with the A82 trunk road providing a gateway to the western Highlands and Islands for millions each year. Through its contribution to tourism and the local economy, the Trust property at Glencoe is of economic significance both nationally and regionally and it provides employment opportunities for local people. Glencoe is of outstanding heritage importance to the Trust and to the people of Scotland. It holds a place in the heart of the nation and it is its quality across both cultural and natural heritage interests, which makes it so special. It is a symbol of the Highlands throughout the world and is probably one of the most famous properties in the Trust s possession (although not many members of the public are aware that the Trust owns much of the glen). To the Trust and to the mountaineering community, Glencoe is of great 6 P a g e
importance for its connection with Percy Unna and as an example of the practical application of the Unna Principles to wild land management. Natural Heritage Glencoe is internationally significant for its geology and the Glencoe Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) has been notified for both its biological and geological interest. The property includes eight separate Geological Conservation Review (GCR) Sites important for both geological and geomorphological features. Glencoe is also one of the most important sites within the Lochaber Geopark. The process of cauldron subsidence was first identified and described at Glencoe. The varied geology and wide altitudinal range and climate of the property result in the presence of a wide variety of plant communities and habitats. Thirteen of these habitats, including species-rich grasslands, montane heaths, screes, bogs and flushes, are of international importance in a European context and have resulted in the property being designated as a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and part of a Special Protection Area (SPA) for Golden Eagle. Additionally, Glencoe is one of the best sites in Scotland for high-altitude arctic-alpine flora, including two Endangered and eleven Vulnerable Red Data Book species. Four species are Nationally Rare and 21 are Nationally Scarce. The birchwoods that clothe the steep slopes below the Three Sisters are the richest in Scotland for Atlantic mosses and liverworts, and north facing heathy block screes provide the habitat for bryophytes of oceanic montane heath. Rare arctic-alpine species occur, particularly in Coire nam Beith, and Meall Mor, with its outcropping limestone, also has a rich flora. Glencoe is well within the top ten montane sites in the British Isles for its arctic-alpine lichens and is of international significance for oceanic lichens. Glencoe has recently been designated a Special Protection Area for Golden Eagle. Cultural Heritage Glencoe is embedded in the psyche of the nation as the place of the infamous massacre of 1692. This massacre is a notorious event in Scottish history. On that basis the spiritual resonance of the property is perceived by many to be nationally important. The other features of the cultural landscape - the archaeology and buildings add to the interest of the property by providing a potential physical link to the massacre and contributing to the Trust s understanding of how land use and habitation have changed through time. The earliest settlements at Strone and Achtriochtan remain unaltered by recent constructs and may hold important clues as to the nature of the landscape before and after The Massacre. A number of other sites within the property contain evidence of past land use and glimpses into the impact of social upheavals, including shieling and woodland management sites, parts of the royal Deer Forest, and areas of former agricultural land. The local farming economy, particularly the clearances associated with 7 P a g e
the introduction of sheep farming have had a major impact on the cultural landscape. In addition to the archaeology there are several groups of houses and farm buildings on the property, all within the main Glen. Together, these buildings nestling on the floor of Glencoe are a key component of the landscape, giving scale to the high mountains that tower above them. The property is very significant to climbers for its place in the history of British mountaineering, reflected by the assistance of the Scottish Mountaineering Club in the original acquisition of the core of the property. It was the location of many of the most celebrated early pioneering climbs in Scotland. The property has developed a new level of intangible significance through its connections with films and literature. This significance can be viewed on an international scale due to associations with such international successes as James Bond Skyfall and Harry Potter. Landscape The landscape of Glencoe is officially recognised in the National Scenic Area designation and it is without question of international significance for its scale, its dramatic, aweinspiring grandeur and the contrast between vertical and horizontal dimensions provided by the high mountains, sharp ridges, and deep, flat-floored, glens. Arrival in Glencoe from the south also provides the most dramatic of contrasts between the bleak, open and flat landscape of Rannoch Moor and the towering heights of the Glencoe mountains. It is a landscape that seldom fails to raise emotion of some kind in those who visit. Most people experience the landscape of Glencoe from the A82 trunk road with the arrival at Glencoe representing a highlight on one of the most dramatic routes in Britain. It is the existence of this road that makes the landscape of the property accessible for around 3 million people passing through annually. The location on a main tourist route, its beauty, history and atmosphere all contribute to the fame of this landscape and its high profile in the psyche of the nation. The landscape of Glencoe has become a familiar image, recognised nationally and internationally, used frequently as an advertising symbol for the Highlands, and Scotland in general. It has inspired literary works through the ages. The quality of the mountains makes the landscape of prime importance to mountaineers throughout the year. 8 P a g e
Visitors Glencoe is internationally significant as a visitor destination. To the tourist, sightseer or recreation seeker, the experience of Glencoe is dominated by the qualities of the landscape and the scenic beauty of the area. It is one of the highlights on any tour of the Highlands and is a popular stopping point for over 3 million visitor who pass along the A82, many of whom pause only briefly in a lay-by to take photographs or enjoy the scenery. Upwards of 100,000 per year stay to explore the mountains which tower above the Visitor Centre and the A82 while approximately 180,000 people call at the awardwinning Visitor Centre each year to learn more about the Glen, its history and the work of the Trust. This unique building, based on the design of a traditional highland clachan, embodies the latest thinking in conservation and environmental design. The Trust offers a range of services and facilities at Glencoe including Ranger led guided walks; children s activities; Ranger advice; an education programme; footpaths; trails and car parks, which all add to the overall experience offered. The visitor centre also offers retail and catering the 3 rd largest income generation from a Trust shop which therefore adds an additional layer of significance to the Trust due to the properties financial generating activities and potential. For those who only visit briefly it is the dramatic landscape and history of Glencoe that draws them and dominates their experiences. For those visiting its mountains it is the experience of solitude, recreation, adventure and the physical challenge that enhances the national importance of the property for mountaineering (in its various guises such as rock-climbing, ice climbing and hillwalking). There is also a tradition of wild camping in the area. Alongside the range of mountaineering activities offered, the property also offers a range of recreational opportunities. Indeed it is the large number of pursuits that can be undertaken in the wider area that has led to this part of Scotland adopting the title Lochaber Outdoor Capital of the UK as a marketing brand. Social and Economic Glencoe is of vital significance to the local economy, both drawing visitors into the area and providing a popular stop on a tour of the Highlands. The A82 is one of the most 9 P a g e
spectacular, dramatic and important scenic and recreational corridors in Scotland and plays a massive role in pulling visitors into this area and beyond. It is the gateway not only to Glencoe and Lochaber but also the Fort William area and the Western Isles beyond. The visitors to the area result in income for local businesses, particularly in the summer months, although the attraction of Glencoe to mountaineers is year-round. The Trust offers local employment opportunities particularly in the tourist season, as well as attracting a range of volunteers many of whom invest significant periods of time at the property. The Trust endeavours to be a contributing part of the local community, encouraging the development of sustainable tourism in conjunction with local businesses. A physical link created between the Visitor Centre and Glencoe village in the form of the Community Link Path was supported by both the Glencoe and Ballachulish Community Councils. There are many thousands of people who have a strong link to Glencoe. They include those whose own past is directly or indirectly linked to the Glen, those who live in Glencoe and feel themselves part of it and those whose livelihoods are in part supported by the Glen and its visitors. Glencoe is an iconic property, one that the Trust is proud to manage on behalf of Scotland and provides the Trust with a showcase to demonstrate best practice as demonstrated by the award-winning Glencoe Visitor Centre, which plays a role in making Glencoe one of the most visited countryside properties in Trust care. Another example of best practice is the work undertaken through Scotland s Mountain Heritage, funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund and Scottish Natural Heritage. This project focuses on low intensity, low impact footpath work that is sustainable and enables the development of new skills. 10 P a g e
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Vision Statement A landscape on a grand scale with an untamed wildness which inspires awe in all who visit. Now infamous for a moment of treachery in Scottish history, Glencoe is also one of the most visited properties in the Trust being very accessible due to the A82 road which bisects the property. Retaining the wild spirit of place both now and for future generations in the face of the many 100,000s of people passing through the glen is the challenge facing the Trust today. The Trust must continue to balance visitor pressures and provision of access to the countryside against Trust policies on Conservation and Wildland, including the Unna Principles, alongside the need to generate income to pay for the overall management of the site. Maintaining a sustainable balance between environment, economics and people is challenging. Glencoe is rich in wildlife, earth heritage and history and has numerous management requirements dictated by national and international designations. Financial consideration and the desire to operate in surplus will be at the fore of decisions yet any action must not detract from scale and spirit of place. Visitor pressures and expectations continue to grow, especially around the visitor centre. The ambition of the Trust however is not simply to meet these challenges but to showcase excellent conservation practice, education and visitor management along with financial sustainability in Scotland and abroad. Visitors will leave the property aware of how special this area really is, but also having had a glimpse of the work required by the Trust to enable its continued conservation and accessibility. This will be done by offering an exceptional visitor experience that allows the Trust to engage with all visitors to the property from those simply passing through to those climbing the highest peaks of the property - and enables the Trust to promote its ownership of this iconic landscape. This cannot be undertaken in isolation. Glencoe is part of a wider community, surrounded and influenced by others tackling similar management issues. Partnerships and joint working will be required to ensure optimum benefit to all with an interest and passion for the property. 12 P a g e
Statement of Intent Overview/Situation review A number of one-off task have been completed at the property over the last five years. Staff offices were moved from the Leishman Buildings into the Visitor Centre, which has allowed options for the use of the old bothy to be incorporated into the ongoing feasibility study. Repairs to the bridge at Coire Gabhail and An Torr was carried out in 2012 and 2013 respectively. New interpretation panels were installed into the very busy car park looking into the Three Sisters and a new property leaflet produced in 2013 to aid understanding and appreciation of the property by visitors. Partnership work also continued, for example through the Blackmount Deer Management Group and work with grazing tenants. Much of the work achieved at the property over the last five years will continue through the life of this Property Action Plan, including the Deer Management programme, habitat surveys, maintenance of buildings including the Visitor Centre, alongside fencing and path survey and maintenance. In addition, actions in this plan will focus on raising the profile of the property to a range of visitors and ensure an adequate infrastructure (via paths, facilities, interpretation and remote access) is in place to enhancement their understanding and enjoyment of Glencoe and Dalness. Strategic Context Specific Actions, including rationales, are given in the Action Plan. The Actions are grouped under Objectives, which are formed by the Strategic Aims in the Trust s current Five Year Strategy. National Trust for Scotland Purpose: The purpose of the National Trust for Scotland is to conserve and promote our heritage National Trust for Scotland Guiding Principles: Excellence: We work to the highest standards allowed by our resources in all aspects of our work. Affordability: We live within our means and use our resources economically and creatively. Accountability: We discharge our duty of care to the nation and to our members. Integrity: We are open, respectful and considerate in our dealings with others. We honour our commitments. Co-operation: We seek to work positively in partnership where appropriate in order to achieve our purpose and fully realise our potential. 13 P a g e
Objectives Objective 1 Objective 2 Objective 3 Objective 4 Objective 5 Objective 6 Objective 7 Objective 8 Objective 9 Objective 10 To increase understanding of the property through survey, monitoring and research to determine future management To conserve, and where appropriate restore, the biodiversity of the property To work in partnership with other relevant bodies and organisations to achieve management objectives To minimise human impacts on the landscape and scenic qualities of the properties To provide visitor facilities and interpretation of a scale and quality in keeping with this iconic property To plan effectively for future management of the property To enable appropriate access for visitors To promote/market the work of the Trust at Glencoe To achieve a financial surplus at the property To continue to support volunteering at the property 14 P a g e
Consulted Internal Derek Alexander, Head of Archaeology Jo Anthony, Interpretation Project Manager Alan Barrow, Estate Surveyor Robert Brown, Upland Footpath Manager Steve Callaghan, Assistant Director (Countryside & islands) Anne Campbell, Head of Holidays Pietro Cecchini, Head of Travel Trade and Hospitality Laura Cheyne, Head of Marketing Patrick Duffy, Director of Properties and Visitor Services Robert Grant, Head of Gardens and Designed Landscape John Hepburn-Wright, Renewable Energy Manager Roben Hera, Membership Marketing Manager Andrew Jackman, Woodland Manager Gavin Kennerley, Outdoor Action Manager Sheona Leonard, Finance Manager Terry Levinthal, Former Director of Conservation and Projects Richard Luxmoore, Senior Nature Conservation Advisor Scott McCombie, Property Manager Claire McDade, Head of Learning Services Arthur Martin, Head of Nature and Countryside Services Colan Mehaffey, Head of Digital Media Alex Miller, Retail Operations Manager Fiona Morley, Head of Food and Beverage 15 P a g e
Anne-Marie O Hara, Head of Projects, Property Planning and SRDP Ruth Scott (nee McAndrew), Safety Health and Environment Advisor Duncan Stevenson, Countryside Project Manager Dan Watson, Ecologist Buz Whibley, Development Manager Jim Whyteside, Head of Communications Glyn Young, Lead Buildings Surveyor External Cathy Mayne, Operations Officer, SNH 16 P a g e