LUSS Estates has been named as a finalist in the 2018 Scottish Rural Awards.

The accolades are the benchmark of success in the countryside, highlighting the enterprise, skill and innovation of those who live and work in rural areas.

Luss Estates has been shortlisted in two of the 11 categories which celebrate all aspects of rural life, from artisan food and tourism to education, conservation and agriculture, namely business diversification and conservation and the environment.

A spokeswoman for Luss Estates explained that the aim of Luss Estates is to support the local economy and community through its business interests in hospitality, events and retail.

They believe their initiation and support of the Arrochar Community Hydro Scheme was part of the reason why they were shortlisted for the conservation and environment award.

She added that in 2010, the company completed construction of a 1MW “run of the river” hydro scheme, based in part on the success of this scheme, and feasibility studies were carried out for other schemes, that Luss Estates proposed to the local development trusts the concept which became Arrochar Community Hydro. 

The scheme is located on land leased by Luss Estates to enable the local development trusts of Luss and Arden and Arrochar and Tarbet to generate income which will be reinvested in their communities.

Other work includes a peatland restoration project, native species planting and allocating more than 250 hours of manpower to litter picking to ensure the environment is maintained.

A winner, runner-up and highly commended in each category will be unveiled at the Scottish Rural Awards and Gala Dinner, which will take place on Thursday, March 22 at Dynamic Earth in Edinburgh.