Plans for world's first 'rewilding centre' earmarked for Highlands

A leading conservation charity has unveiled plans for what is billed as the “world’s first rewilding centre” at a sprawling estate in the Highlands.

An artist's impression of the visitor centre which Trees for Life hopes will attract more than 50,000 visitors a year. Picture: Trees for Life

Trees for Life wants to establish a visitor centre at the heart of Dundreggan, a 10,000 acre expanse where the charity has embarked on an expansive replanting programme since acquiring it in 2008.

Now, it hopes to attract more than 50,000 tourists a year to the natural landscape between Loch Ness and the Isle of Skye, and help showcase the benefits of “working with nature rather than against it.”

The plans, which have been submitted to Highland Council, allow for an innovative visitor centre inspired by the wild native forests of the Highlands.

Proposed layouts and artist’s impressions filed as part of the application show it will include a bothy-style space and areas for workshops and classrooms, as well a natural amphitheatre, suntrap terrace, viewing deck, and play area for children.

A central space, known as the Welcome Tree area, will feature a large-scale Scots pine sculpture.

The charity says the new centre would boost the rural economy and create at least 15 new local jobs, and hopes to open its doors next year..

Steve Micklewright, chief executive of Trees of Life, said: “Dundreggan Rewilding Centre will be a place for people from all walks of life to rewild themselves by exploring and enjoying a remarkable wild landscape in a beautiful Highland glen, and to spend time learning about the area’s unique wildlife and inspiring Gaelic history.”

It promises the inclusive centre will provide events, experiences and exhibitions for casual visitors, those seeking a more immersive experience, and groups with specific requirements, such as those with physical or learning disabilities, as well as families and schools.

Gaelic will be a focus of interpretation throughout, including a bespoke Gaelic resource centre that will serve as an archive and learning space.

The design of the centre, overseen by Inverness-based Threesixty Architecture, takes its cues from the local Gaelic heritage and the Caledonian forest. The vertical shapes of the structure, say Trees for Life, represent nearby trees, with changing light reflecting the colours of bracken and forest bark.

Under the plans, an accessible 20-bed accommodation space will be constructed on the site of an original lodge, enabling visitors - including students and researchers - to have longer stays at the acclaimed rewilding estate, home to over 4,000 plant and animal species, many of them rare and protected .

The project has been made possible thanks to over £2m in support from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, the Scottish Natural Heritage-led Natural and Cultural Heritage Fund, funded through the European Regional Development Fund, and other agencies.

Trees for Life is seeking further funding to ensure the centre can be constructed on schedule in 2021, with the opening scheduled for the following year. It says feedback from an extensive community consultation has been incorporated into the plans.

Highland Council granted planning permission in principle for the venture last April. A date has yet to be set to hear the full application.

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