Tombreck's Turnaround
Fifteen miles to the west of Aberfeldy, on the wooded northern shores of Loch Tay, and sheltering below the mountain of Ben Lawers is Tombreck Farm. Originally part of the extensive Breadalbane Estate, the farm is a traditional hill farm which is in the process of being rejuvenated, in a manner that could be described as ‘farm diversification’. (see farm and steading below)
In April 2003 a group of friends and local people established the Tombreck Action Group, with the aims for Tombreck to “work as a farm, and to diversify into other activities so as to include other people, and to provide housing and employment at a sustainable level”. Looking back since that time we can say that a great deal has indeed happened.
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Regeneration
Along with the improved access road, a new footpath, new electricity and water supplies and the establishment of a tree nursery to re stock the farm woodlands, the old farm house has been renovated, the steadings are being converted into housing, and the former cart shed into an office/studio/exhibition space. From just one person living at Tombreck, it is now home to three families, a current total of 10 people, with two, maybe three or four more households arriving over the next few years.
Other developments are in the pipeline; we are planning to build ‘commercial/ industrial/ workshop’ units in the form of a large timber shed, the ‘Big Shed’, on the site of the old sheep fank.
Enterprise Units
This will be a flexible, mixed-use space, with the potential to house several small business and new enterprises. The units will be available for use by Tombreck residents, and others needing a work space locally. If the proposals go according to plan, there will even be a flat grassy area in front of the Big Shed, large enough to erect a marquee or play a game of football.
House Plot Available
Last year we obtained Planning permission from Perth & Kinross Council for two new build ‘straw bale’ houses to the south side of the courtyard. Stories and jokes about ‘The Three Little Pigs’ apart, these houses are capable of being as comfortable, secure and attractive as any other, and we are currently looking for a buyer for the second of these two serviced building plots.
A desire to live in a ‘house of straw’ is not obligatory however; more importantly we are looking for people who would genuinely like to make Tombreck their home. We think that our ideal purchaser would be a local family able to participate in the ongoing growth of Tombreck farm. They may wish to be involved in a land based project or be looking to set up, or have an existing small business that needs workshop space. For anyone interested in coming to Tombreck, please contact us to arrange a visit. But first have a look at our website www.tombreck.co.uk, for more information on the various projects and developments and to get a flavour of our aspirations for the future.
Anne Manning
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