Organizers emphasize community engagement and environmental responsibility in outdoor events.
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In recent weeks, an ambitious initiative aimed at fostering community through music and dance was abruptly halted due to a lack of necessary permissions. Hannah Vanhoof and Alastair Curtis-Walcott, both 24 and based in Edinburgh, had planned an open-air dance night at the historic Ardvreck Castle in Sutherland.
However, their plans were thwarted when it was revealed that they had not secured permission from Historic Assynt, the organization responsible for the site.
Understanding the Right to Roam legislation
The couple’s intention was to utilize Scotland’s Right to Roam legislation, which allows individuals to access most land and inland water for recreational purposes.
This legislation is designed to promote outdoor activities while respecting the rights of landowners. Unfortunately, the organizers did not anticipate the local community’s concerns regarding the potential impact of their event on the historic site and its surroundings.
Community concerns and local engagement
After locals expressed their worries about the gathering, it became clear that the organizers had overlooked the importance of engaging with the community and landowners before planning such events. The couple later relocated their event to Durness, where approximately 40 to 45 attendees gathered. Hannah emphasized the importance of community in their events, stating, “We want to show that we are responsible and that we leave no trace behind.” This sentiment reflects a growing trend among event organizers who prioritize environmental sustainability and community involvement.
Future plans for responsible gatherings
Despite the setback, Hannah and Alastair remain optimistic about future events. They expressed a desire to collaborate with local communities and landowners to ensure that their gatherings are not only enjoyable but also respectful of the land and its heritage. Alastair noted, “We would love to do this properly with the community.” Their commitment to promoting Scotland’s Right to Roam legislation and the “leave no trace” principles highlights their dedication to responsible outdoor access.
The Durness event featured a diverse lineup of music, including acoustic sets and various genres such as psychedelic rock and drum and bass, all powered by green energy stored in batteries. This approach aligns with their goal of creating family-friendly events that foster connection and respect for the environment. As they move forward, the couple hopes to build a framework for future gatherings that honors both the community and the natural landscape.
Historic Assynt, which oversees Ardvreck Castle, reiterated the importance of obtaining permissions for events held at protected sites. A spokesperson stated, “People are regularly moved on from Ardvreck as it is not a campsite and has no campsite facilities.” This serves as a reminder that while the Right to Roam legislation provides opportunities for outdoor activities, it also comes with responsibilities that organizers must navigate carefully.
