A UNIQUE dairying opportunity is available for an entrepreneurial individual or family on the Isle of Bute.

The Mount Stuart Trust is offering productive grassland which is becoming available on the retirement of previous tenants. The Trust is seeking a person, family or company to help them establish a new dairy business.

They are open to applications from existing and potential tenants, but are also keen to encourage interest in a joint venture.

"This is an opportunity to farm what is arguably some of the best agricultural land on the island, with the area available ranging in size depending on the ambition of the successful applicant," saID Mary Munro, head of farming in Scotland for Strutt and Parker, who is working with the Trust to find a suitable business partner.

“Historically, the dairy sector has been the island’s agricultural backbone and the Trust is keen to maintain this tradition.

“The ideal candidate will be someone with an innovative approach who wants to live on the island and integrate with the local community. We’d be particularly open to approaches from applicants with interesting ideas for adding value or processing some of the milk, as this is a strategy that would be encouraged by the Trust.”

There are two dairy farm steadings available, and the new business could be based at either Kerrytonlia or Drumachloy. Both have suitable buildings and good productive grassland for grazing and ensiling. Other facilities are available within the whole offering, and interested parties will be able to view the alternatives.

Applications will be considered from individuals, family farms, new entrants or a commercial agribusiness, and existing tenants looking to expand. The trust is willing to consider all proposals that demonstrate a shared vision for a successful dairy sector on the island.

A milk contract is in place. Milk production must commence by September 2021, which gives time for any additional infrastructure to be built as required.

Bute is regarded as one of the most accessible Scottish islands, being close to Glasgow, with regular ferries and short crossing times from the mainland. Farming is a major industry on the island with the majority of the land area being used for beef, sheep or dairy farming. There are currently nine dairy farms on the island.