Flurry of ideas over sale of Invergordon's Bouchardon Bust
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THE prospect of a multimillion pound cash windfall for Invergordon has sparked a flurry of ideas among inspired residents as to how the money might be spent.
The historic Bouchardon Bust, which is valued at £1.4 million but could sell for well in excess of that, looks set to be sold off under plans by Highland Council.
The bust, which depicts late landowner and MP Sir John Gordon, was created by the noted artist Edmé Bouchardon in the early 18th century whilst resident in Rome and Sir John was on his Grand Tour.
The artwork, which was rediscovered by local Councillor Maxine Smith, who found it propping open a shed door on a Balintore industrial estate in 1998, is owned by Invergordon Common Good. Hopes are high that the potential sale will bring a cash windfall for the fund which might then be used to good effect in the local community.
News of the possible sale prompted a range of responses online. Many were eagerly suggesting ideas as to how the money could be spent to boost the town, while others called for moves to ensure the cash is ring-fenced to prevent it being spent elsewhere in the Highlands, and one or two others questioning whether the town should be selling off such a historic piece of its history.
Ideas for the money range form purchasing local land for community use, to sprucing up the town centre or the town hall.
Related: Public to get say on future of £1.4 million Ross-shire bust bought for a fiver
Related: £1.4 million bust of reputed founder of Invergordon could be sold
Commenting on the local community Facebook page, Richard Cross said: “I would suggest purchasing the former games field and the “Major’s woods” to reinstate the games. I’m sure this would build on the success of our local Strongman heroes in addition to protecting the only designated ancient woodland in Invergordon and the only traffic free safe space for people to walk and relax.”
Monica Clarkson added: “Sell it and put [it] towards the town. [The] town definitely needs a boost – that money could have definitely bought the town hall.”
Other posts were eager to make sure any money raised stayed firmly within the community and also not be used to cross subsidise Highland Council’s local responsibilities.
David Campbell said: “Whatever the outcome - it should not replace a single penny of funding the Highland Council are duty bound to spend on infrastructure in the town. It needs to deliver tangible long term benefits aside of normal budget commitments.”
And others were eager to see the bust sold to benefit the town.
Shonah Flett said: “If sold any funds should go towards a project that stands the test of time as indeed the bust has.”
And Lorna Geddes added: “That is good news for the town. The sale of the bust could be a great asset to the common good fund.”
Bill Bob also wanted to see it sold to boost Invergordon, adding: “Sell it, Invergordon needs all the help to try and get back to what it was many years ago.”
The potential sale of the bust by Highland Council is subject to public consultation first owing to it being a common good asset. No decision to sell can be made ahead of the conclusion of that process, and any decision will need to take into account the responses received.
– What do you think? Do you want to see the bust sold? If so, what would you like to see the money spent on? Email us at newsdesk@hnmedia.co.uk
