Loch in the Scottish Highlands famed for Nessie and its geological heft
The Ness Guga Hunt remains a flashpoint as campaigners press for change and officials weigh the potential impact on seabird populations. Local communities stress cultural significance while NatureScot and government face ongoing public interest and petitions.
The gWest estate at Blackford, Perth and Kinross, known as Scotland’s ghost course, has been offered for sale. The 639-acre site includes an unfinished 18-hole course, a domed clubhouse shell, and planning consent for up to 170 homes, a hotel and spa. Buyers face a legacy of delayed development tied to the global financial crisis, Brexit, and the Covid-19 pandemic. Knight Frank warns the asset could reposition Scotland’s luxury tourism, with global interest anticipated.
Auditor General reports ScotWind revenues have been drawn down to £96m with £507m expected by 2031; government promises transparency as developers’ long-term leases determine future income and public value.
A roundup of continuing festival talk across Scotland and the UK. Belladrum in the Highlands has named Fatboy Slim, James and Amy Macdonald as headliners for 2027, with Reading/Leeds, Glastonbury, Download and TRNSMT still shaping up. Primavera Sound 2027 and TRNSMT remain unresolved as organisers weigh acts and schedules.