Case Study 1: Morvern tree services – MCT Business Start-up Grant
Local Arborist George Logue applied for MCT’s Business Start-up Grant to access funding from MCT, helping him to set-up Morvern Tree Services, a completely new business based in Lochaline. Morvern Tree Services operates all over Lochaber and the Central Belt and undertakes a range of professional tree climbing and groundwork, including crown reductions, storm recovery, preservation care & advice, plantation forestry work and domestic felling.
Morvern Tree Services is the first Morvern-based dedicated Arboreal business and meets a real local need, especially as storm severity increases. George and his wife Eilidh moved to Lochaline from Erskine in 2023 to be nearer family and George quickly identified that his skills and qualifications were keyworker skills which Morvern lacked. George received business start-up finance from MCT and Business Gateway. MCT also facilitated a meeting for George with Lochaber Chamber of Commerce to help with business planning and networking.
You can contact Morvern Tree Services for free, no-obligation quotes at morverntrees@gmail.com and 07947 870292
Case Study 2: DRIMnin hall – MCT main grant
Drimnin Village Hall, once Bunavullin Primary School, built in the 1800s, has been leased from the Highland Council since 19th September 1980 with the purpose of providing recreational and educational facilities to the community. Over the years, the use and functions of the hall have adapted with how the community wish to use the space. The hall has been host to many a ceilidh and wedding reception, countless chit-chats over cups of tea and hands of cards, and it has also provided a stage for educational talks, engaging film nights and community meetings.
Sadly, the 19th-century building began deteriorating significantly in 2024 and was at increasing risk of becoming unfit for purpose. Repairs to the building were identified as being beyond fundraising efforts and volunteer hours. The current Trustees felt it was an ideal time to encourage the increase in engagement seen and could see the benefits in investing time and resources into a multi-phase, strategic renovation plan with the aim of rejuvenating a historical, rural community space into a characterful modern hub.
MCT has been integral to getting this project off the ground by supporting the hall with full funding of phases 2 and 3 of our plan. These included hiring a local contractor to reinforce the ceiling, then fitting insulation and a wood panelling finish to create a safe, energy-efficient space with a modern look.
Completing these foundationary stages has enabled future phases of a 9-phase renovation plan. Since these works have been completed, match funding has been secured, covering phases 4-7. We have now also installed a multi-fuel stove, and we’re moving rapidly towards lighting upgrades, acoustic improvements, and much needed interior decorating. All phases are due to be completed in October 2026.
You can contact Drimnin Hall with booking or general enquiries at drimninhall@gmail.com
Morvern Community Trust 