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be exhibited at the Lighthouse in Glasgow from 14 February to 13 March. The architects had to reconcile conflicting
‘Why are we thinking so small? So far only three projects have been approved, where dozens are needed to make an impact’
objectives: to be unobtrusive but enhance the view; and to be simple in design and execution, using natural and durable materials, but capable of standing up to wear and tear, including vandalism. Many of the project submissions merited roll-out across the length and breadth of Scotland as the designers came up with brilliantly innovative ideas, some of which deserve to be ‘go to’ destinations in their own right. Of the three winning designs, one is a
timber stepped viewing platform and seating area that focuses on the panoramic views over Loch Lomond at Inveruglas. It was designed by a three-strong team of Sean Edwards, Daniel Bär and Stéphane Toussaint who work in the Glasgow office of Dualchas Architects. Another is a sheltered space created by banked earth with views over Loch Lubnaig to Ben Ledi. Its designer is Ruairidh Campbell Moir from the Isle of Lewis who has just graduated from Strathclyde’s School of Architecture. The third, by his fellow Strathclyde graduate John Kennedy, is a dramatic woven steel shelter which will amplify and enhance the sound of the Falls of Falloch. ‘The Scenic Routes competition is a tremen-
dous springboard into the profession,’ says Ruairidh. ‘A harsh economic climate and fewer potential commissions all but slams the door shut on many young architects. ‘This competition brief offered a tantalising
opportunity to cut your teeth on a potentially live project. I am excited by the prospect of
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numerous architectural interventions across Scotland that can enhance our appreciation or understanding of place. It can only be a good thing for the economic and cultural develop- ment of Scotland.’ Inspiring as all this is, it raises some searching
questions about Scotland and how we go about things. Why has it taken so long – more than three years – for such an initiative to progress to the design stage? Remember that work has yet to begin and may take another summer visitor season to finish, taking the time from concept to completion to five years. And why are we thinking so small? So far,
only three projects have been approved, where dozens are needed to make a cumulative, signature impact. Lack of finance is hardly a plausible reason – the schemes approved range in cost from £150,000 to £50,000. In a country with a budget of more than £30 billion, this really is peanuts. Already there are ‘issues’ with the Inveruglas site where the tender has come in significantly over budget. But this is surely something that a modicum of private or corporate sponsorship could overcome. Those Scandinavian minimalist interven-
tions may look easy to do, but these projects, small and unobtrusive though they appear, are far from simple to execute. But why only now are we still learning the imperative of quality design at the concept stage? And why only now have we alighted on such a simple, practical idea? Enhancing the roadside view is an art for which we could – and should – be global leaders. So I hope very much that this is not the end of this excellent project – but the end of the beginning.
Q: Are there tax considerations to be aware of when entering into a renewable energy project?
A: There will be Inheritance Tax, Capital Gains Tax and Income Tax issues for you to consider. You will have to decide whether you are undertaking the project personally or through a company, leasing the land to someone else, or using a joint venture vehicle. Each has specific tax consequences. The project may impact on the value of your estate and result in an increase in value
for Inheritance Tax purposes. It could affect the availability of Inheritance Tax reliefs that your estate potentially benefits from. Disposals during lifetime are generally subject to Capital Gains Tax. Capital Gains
Jaclyn Petrie,
Associate at Stronachs LLP
www.stronachs.com
YOURSF
TO HAVE YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED EMAIL THEM TO
EDITOR@SCOTTISHFIELD.CO.UK
148
WWW.SCOTTISHFIELD.CO.UK
Tax is charged at 18% or 28%, depending on your total taxable income. It is important that you consider where the profit from the project is destined to fall and rearrange the land ownership structure if required for efficient distribution. The reorganisation should probably be done before planning permission is obtained. If it is not, the value of the land may increase significantly due to the development potential and you may find that you incur a larger Capital Gains Tax liability if you reorganise the ownership structure at a later date. For Income Tax purposes, any rental income generated by the project may be treated
as investment income by HM Revenue & Customs and taxed at your own rate of Income Tax. You should be aware of your tax rate and ensure that you are appropriately report- ing income generated by the project to HMRC. Without careful planning, the tax consequences of your renewable energy project may become disadvantageous. You should obtain legal and taxation advice at the outset.
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