By Viv MacDonald, Project Leader for Lochaber Meat Project
In 2025 I set about investigating why there wasn’t a handy abattoir in Fort William. Farmers, crofters, consumers all talked about the problems consequent to not having a nearby facility. The issues turned out to be more complicated and the solution less obvious than first sight.
If it was simple the problem would surely have resolved itself by now. To do so will require a coordinated effort from many different agencies, organisations and individuals.
This report offers some solutions – each needs resources, time and expertise. However my hope is to support a discussion which already takes place with new enthusiasm and some ideas.
At a time when food security, rural communities, carbon emissions, animal welfare, increasing use of technology and locally sourced food are all pressing concerns the role of the abattoir should be included centre stage – key to a holistic course for the future.
What happens next? What do you think should happen next? So many questions, but by working together I am confident we can move forward.