New owner plans £10m refurbishment of Carbisdale Castle in Sutherland and pledges to support local economy with intention to 'breathe new life' into historic building
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Carbisdale Castle in Ardgay, Sutherland, is poised to add a new chapter to its long and storied history following its recent purchase by Samantha Kane.
The 20-bedroom property, which overlooks its own private loch and enjoys views over the Kyle of Sutherland, was constructed in the early 1900s as a residence for the recently widowed Duchess of Sutherland but has more recently fallen into the brief ownership of a series of investment groups.
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The last castle to be built in Scotland, Carbisdale has found itself laying vacant in recent years.
Now the castle’s new guardian aspires to restore it to its former glory, in keeping with its illustrious past as the home of a duchess and as a place of refuge for Norwegian king and crown prince during the Nazi occupation of the country.
With extensive £10 million plans to refurbish the property, Ms Kane intends to invest in the local economy through the creation of jobs, both in the castle itself and in its surrounding estate, as well as through the involvement of Highland-based contractors during the renovation process itself.
Her commitment to the economic health of the local area will also be reflected in a range of initiatives, such as support for local organic farmers, a cause close to her heart. As an ardent supporter of wildlife conversation, she has also pledged to engage with local charitable causes, which will align with her commitment to preserving the extensive forested estate surrounding the castle.
She said: "I was drawn to the castle’s splendour, as well as its impressive historical background, and I felt a sense of kinship with its original occupant the Duchess of Sutherland, whose story I find fascinating. My vision is to breathe new life into Carbisdale and ensure that its incredible historical value can coexist alongside new contributions to the prosperity of the local area."
