Philanthropist’s Contribution Aids Community in Acquiring 7,800 Acres

A community organization has acquired nearly 8,000 acres (3,237 ha) of property situated close to Achiltibuie within the Coigach region of Wester Ross, facilitated by assistance from a prominent wealthy individual in the UK. The Badentarbet Estate was listed for sale earlier this year, seeking bids exceeding £2.7m. Ian Wace, a millionaire financier and proprietor of the adjacent island of Tanera Mòr in the Summer Isles, contributed £1.75m to the Coigach Community Development Company (CCDC) to aid in its acquisition of the majority of the estate. Summer Isles Enterprises (SIE), owned by Mr Wace, purchased the remaining 1,100 acres (445 ha), which encompasses Achnahaird beach and four minor islands. Laura Hamlet, chief executive of CCDC, stated that due to Mr Wace’s backing, a significant portion of land is now under the ownership of local inhabitants, including crofters. She affirmed: “At CCDC, we take this responsibility very seriously. “As a newly established crofting landlord, we are committed to listening, understanding and responding promptly to the needs of our tenant crofters.” Ms Hamlet further remarked: “Yet, there is plenty of room for excitement, as this marks a historic and transformative moment for the peninsula.” The CCDC’s acquisition comprises 7,800 acres. Mr Wace, a hedge fund manager and philanthropist, had an estimated net worth of £875m and was listed at position 193 in the 2024 The Sunday Times Rich List. Adam Blaker, SIE chief executive, commented that the deal ensured land for the local populace. He continued: “We look forward to working with our neighbours to help make Ian Wace’s donation to CCDC a catalyst for regeneration across the beautiful Coigach peninsula.” Mr Blaker expressed gratitude to the Rex family, who had possessed the estate for multiple decades, for enabling the sale.