Owners Buccleuch today announced they are holding talks with two community bodies about the future of the 25,000 acres, which stretch from Auchenrivock to Hartsgarth.
And to allow time for either of them to prepare a bid, the planned sale is being put on hold.
Executive chairman Benny Higgins said: “Two local communities have expressed a desire to reflect on whether or not they may wish to bid for some or all of the land that is to be sold. We wish to respect their interest and to create a window during which they can consider their options. This will enable the community bodies to proactively formulate and conclude on their intentions by the end of March 2020.
“If no such bid emerges we will continue with the planned marketing of the land.”
South Scotland MSP Colin Smyth has welcomed the decision to delay the sale for the talks.
- See the full story in the Annandale Observer
