CAMPAIGNERS have reacted with anger after the US firm developing Taymouth Castle into a resort for the mega-rich sent out invites to a “community gathering” to discuss the work – but excluded the vast majority of concerned parties.
Discovery Land Company (DLC), which owns Taymouth Castle, the neighbouring 7000-acre Glenlyon Estate, and a host of other properties in the Loch and River Tay area, sent out an invitation to the meeting to people in Kenmore in October.
But residents of other communities on Loch Tay, such as Killin, and nearby towns such as Aberfeldy – where DLC has purchased the 35-acre Moness Resort – are excluded from attending.
Spaces at the November 2 event are limited to two per household and people are asked to submit “your full name, address and postcode along with any questions you wish to ask” in order to register.
The invite, signed by Taymouth Castle general manager David O’Donoghue, makes clear that the event “is exclusively for Kenmore residents, our closest neighbours”.
Campaigners with Protect Loch Tay, a campaign group set up to monitor the development of the historic Taymouth estate, have said the limitations on attendance are “absolutely outrageous”.
A spokesperson added: “This is another box-ticking exercise with public relations in mind. It certainly lacks respect for the many folks who have been waiting months for the opportunity to speak to DLC face-to-face, to voice concerns and ask their questions.”
There have been fresh concerns about DLC’s work after revelations that planning rules had been breached. Developers have started work on a drainage system into the River Tay, despite not having permission.
There were also questions after a B-listed monument on the grounds was smashed.
DLC alleged, through Perth and Kinross Council, that they suspected vandalism. The company did not respond when asked if and when it had been reported to the police.
A Protect Loch Tay spokesperson said: “At Protect Loch Tay we are shocked, but honestly not surprised at all at Discovery Land Company's ridiculous attempt at a public meeting, as was requested by Protect Loch Tay and then by John Swinney and Pete Wishart.
“As it turns out, invitation only, questions to be submitted in advance, and provide DLC with your name and address? Absolutely outrageous.
“We'd like to ask who has actually been invited? What were the criteria used to select the invited? And how many residents were included? We have heard from residents who have not been included and they are very disappointed.
“This is not what we would call a ‘public meeting’ in any shape or form.”
Campaigners went on: “We at Protect Loch Tay are not surprised by insincere actions DLC take in relation to communication, it's how they have behaved all along.
“Tom Collopy himself [DLC’s project manager at Taymouth] previously stated their communication had been inadequate. As ever, it's all smoke and mirrors from DLC, and a blatant refusal to be questioned by those of us who are very concerned.
“Good neighbours? We did invite them to meet for tea and scones, but to date we've had no reply. Running scared?”
DLC was approached for comment.
