Bute urged to vote on Rhubodach forest buy-out as BBC features community ballot today
published this on 8:45 am, Monday, 8th February, 2010Business| Bute| Community Buy Out| Community News| Renewable Energy | Comments (rss) | Respond | Ping |
In its morning, lunchtime and evening news bulletins today 88th February), BBC Scotland is featuring Bute Community Land Company‘s initiative to buy Rhubodach forest at the north end of the island.
The plan is to develop it as a sustainable fuel and economic resource for the community and a rich amenity for the community and for its visitors.
Brandanes (or Bute folk) are currently voting in a Community Ballot whihc is the largest of its ind ever to be held in Scotland. That itself puts the island on the map – as does its plan to make Bute the first island with a measured carbon footprint, currently being overseen by Towards Zero Carbon Bute
Mike Mackenzie, the SNP candidate for Argyll & Bute for the forthcoming Westminster election, excited by the project, is urging the people of Bute to take the opportunity to vote – and to vote in favour of the proposed community buy out of the forest.
He says: ‘I am told that there has been an encouraging response so far in returned votes for the Rhubodach buyout but it is important that this momentum is maintained and that the huge effort made to take this ambitious project to the present stage does not falter at the last hurdle.
‘The BBC has shown a keen interest in this as it is the largest community ballot of its type to take place so far in Scotland.
‘Because of this the ballot will be the subject of BBC news reports throughout the day on Monday 8th February, covering various aspects of the local scene, interviews with key players and some beautiful scenic shots of Bute.
‘The eyes of Scotland will be firmly on Bute and I sincerely hope that the community will respond in a positive and ambitious frame of mind.
‘This Community Ownership project has the potential to bring massive investment and the resultant benefits to Bute. For instance, the timber market is predicted by industry leaders to become increasingly important with the demand for zero carbon initiatives and the growth in demand for biomass applications creating a huge demand for mature timber.
‘There are, of course many other possibilities of progress and renewal within the project which is why I feel able to give it my full support. Watch the broadcasts and this will be demonstrated.
‘I would urge all registered voters on the island to take the opportunity to vote in this important poll and to support the Community Ownership proposals.’
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