The Mount Stuart Trust manages and oversees a diverse array of assets on the Isle of Bute. These include Mount Stuart House and Gardens, 36 farms, 100 residential properties, 1447 hectares of woodland, and 21 commercial properties, encompassing sports facilities and gaming licenses. The Trust's focus revolves around generating economic value for the community through avenues like employment, tourism income, and housing. Recognizing the far-reaching impact of their decisions on the surrounding community, the Trust embarked on a mission to cultivate meaningful connections. In March 2023, the Trust unveiled its Community Engagement Strategy, a product of thorough community consultation. This strategy outlines a blueprint for fostering continuous and constructive dialogues with the island's residents and workforce.
One of the primary hurdles entailed dismantling the longstanding barriers that characterized the relationship between the former 'Bute Estate' and the local community. Moving forward, the Trust adopted a visible presence in community activities, embracing discussions that may have been previously challenging or discouraged. By enlisting a Community Engagement Officer, the Trust established effective communication channels with the community. This step demonstrated the Trust's commitment to accessibility, accompanied by a pledge to address all inquiries within 48 hours. The response from the community has been overwhelmingly positive.
To facilitate discussions, the Mount Stuart Trust conducts monthly community forums, providing opportunities to exchange ideas, raise concerns, and collaboratively identify solutions. These forums alternate between Mount Stuart and a community center in the island's primary town, Rothesay, enhancing accessibility for community members. The Trust's communications strategy is outlined on local radio and presented at Bute Community Council meetings. A quarterly community newsletter is circulated to key stakeholders, agricultural and residential leaseholders, and individuals who subscribe through the Trust's website. This newsletter serves as a primary conduit through which the Trust communicates its plans and actions to the community. It extends invitations for input, constructive criticism, participation, and rural education contributions. Moreover, it provides a platform for community members to partake in the Trust's planning and operational projects. At the project's inception, the Trust holds dedicated open community consultation sessions to gather a diverse spectrum of opinions and insights, which significantly influence projects as they progress through the planning phases and beyond.
As an island-rooted entity, the Trust prioritizes the engagement of local contractors and suppliers. This strategy serves to cultivate robust community relationships and bolster the island's economy. Through the employment of a dedicated Countryside Ranger for educational and community purposes, the Trust underscores its commitment to preserving the natural environment while adhering to best practices in land management. The Countryside Ranger collaborates with multiple island agencies, local interest groups, and maintains active connections with all four schools in the region.