Community asset transfer approved for Inverness-shire community company

Fort Augustus Memorial Hall is set to have a new lease of life as Inverness councillors approve a community asset transfer application from Fort Augustus & Glenmoriston Community Company (FAGCC). 

Leader of Inverness and Area Cllr Ian Brown said: “Successful community asset transfers are great news for our communities and The Highland Council remains committed to enabling increased community ownership which is a Scottish national outcome and a priority for Highland Council. 

“Community asset transfers contribute to one of the Council’s key strategic priorities which aims to encourage community-led and run services involving more people in local decision making.” 

The community company intend to use the building as a base for their business and to deliver a community hub facility which will free up space at other local facilities that they currently occupy for other community services and activities. The company plans to invest in the improvement of the Memorial Hall for community use. 

Built in 1913, the property was a drill station for "A" Squadron, 1st Lovat's Scouts and drill station for "E" Company, 4th Battalion Cameron Highlanders in 1914. It was used as a public hall by the former Inverness District Council and latterly as a Council Service Point and Registration Office by The Highland Council until deemed unsuitable for the services being provided. 

Highland Council’s City of Inverness Area Committee has agreed to sell the listed building to FAGCC at a requested 50% discounted sum of £40,000 as the wider community benefits would outweigh the negligible benefit from the Council retaining the property. 

Community Asset Transfer requests can be made under the Community Empowerment Act and the application approved today by Councillors is subject to terms of transfer including correction of a historic title discrepancy between The Highland Council and Scottish Canals with Registers of Scotland. 

Details on community asset transfers in Highland and how to apply for them can be found on the council’s website at: www.highland.gov.uk/cat or please email cat@highland.gov.uk