We were thrilled to have representatives from Aberfeldy, Dull & Weem, Kenmore & District, Mid-Atholl, Strathtay and Grandtully, Glenlyon and Loch Tay, and Killin Community Council join us on 18th October for our quarterly community council forum.

During the meeting, the team from Taymouth Castle, including General Manager David O’Donoghue and Community Relations Manager Mairi McAdam, provided updates on our ongoing engagement plan. This includes the introduction of a community notice board and a quarterly resident newsletter, which will be distributed to homes in the coming days. David reaffirmed his commitment to keeping the community and their representatives informed on a regular basis. The appointment of Mairi as the community relations manager demonstrates our dedication to this commitment.

David also expressed Taymouth Estate’s eagerness to support community initiatives, such as the Light Up Kenmore project. He provided updates on the restoration of the castle overseen by Historic Scotland, as well as the restoration of the golf club, parks, and woodlands. Once the construction works are complete, the Core Paths will be reinstated.

Exciting developments are also on the horizon. The Kenmore Village Shop is scheduled to open in Spring 2024, offering over 300 items including daily essentials and local produce. Additionally, the public toilets are set to reopen in Spring 2024, followed by the Kenmore Hotel in 2026 after undergoing necessary refurbishments. There is no confirmed reopening date for Taymouth Trading, which will feature a restaurant and pub open to the public.

Moness Resort continues to welcome the public, serving both local residents and tourists and discussions with PKC regarding the provision of affordable and workforce housing in the community are underway.

Looking ahead, our focus for the next four months will be on Christmas in Kenmore, the reopening of the Village Shop, and the countdown to the soft opening of the Castle, which will include an open day for the community.

During the meeting, representatives raised questions about transportation, to which David confirmed that cars would be the primary mode of transport. He also assured that Taymouth Estate is a member of the Loch Tay Association and remains committed to adhering to their rules and regulations.

The next meeting is scheduled for January 2024.