Maria de la Torre, Chairman of Knocknagael Ltd said:

After almost eight years, we are over the moon with the news of the Ministerial decision ordering the transfer of the Smiddy Field to the community to progress.

We cannot believe we have finally reached the point where we are able to move. This has been a long road with hours of volunteer time dedicated to the project. While we still have much to do, it feels like a momentous milestone in the journey, and we hope the decisive advice from the panel recommending the asset transfer goes ahead is followed by a speedy response from RPID, the Scottish Government department. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to take forward a transformative project to benefit Inverness communities which will also safeguard the future of the farm.

We are grateful to the panel for their detailed work on the case and for their fairness.

The Review Panel’s report and Minister’s decision are huge steps forward in delivering for the community. We still have quite a way to go before finalising matters, such as securing funding and agreeing specific conditions of transfer. We want to thank everyone who supported us and helped us get this far. We look forward to a good working relationship with all partners and neighbours including the farm at Knocknagael.

We would not have got to this stage without the support of members and partner organisations. We are particularly grateful to colleagues from our partner organisations for their support during the hearing (Action for Children, Centred, Homeless Trust and Highland Good Food Partnership). We are also grateful for the invaluable assistance provided by DTAS (Development Trusts Association Scotland) and HIE (Highlands and Islands Enterprise) with the process, and by Community Enterprise in the development of the plans for the project. Others that have supported the project include Inverness Incredible Edible, Community Woods Association, and Community Land Scotland. The project is a collaborative endeavour.”