International Charity pioneers in Loch Tay centre bid

Proposed development would build nature connectedness

Individuals behind a charity which feeds millions of poor schoolchildren hope to establish an activity centre in Perthshire that will introduce teenagers to the outdoors.

Magnus and Julie MacFarlane-Barrow established Mary’s Meals, a renowned charity that feeds 3 million schoolchildren daily in some of the world’s poorest communities.

Now they have submitted initial plans for consultation for an outdoor activity centre for young people at Carie Farm under separate charity, Generation Hope.

Nature benefits

The planned centre, on the northern shore of Loch Tay, would give 12-15 year olds from schools and community groups the chance to experience nature and enable Generation Hope to build upon its successful camps at Loch Monzievaird near Crieff.

Young people, of all faiths and none, would be able to take part in kayaking, paddle boarding, archery and team games, helping to build confidence and enhance nature connectedness.

The development, which includes cabins, staff accommodation, dining and kitchen facilities and outdoor areas would also provide a base for Generation Hope, with demand growing for its term-time camps.

The recently passed Schools (Residential Outdoor Education) (Scotland) Act requires all pupils at state and grant-aided schools to have the chance to participate in at least four nights and five days of residential outdoor education.

Inspiring setting

A Generation Hope Spokesman said: “This is a unique opportunity to create a special place on the shores of Loch Tay where young people from across Scotland can experience the outdoors, try new things and develop skills, confidence and friendships that can stay with them for life.

“Our existing camps have been hugely successful, but demand from schools has grown well beyond what our current facilities can accommodate.

“Carie would give us the space to welcome more young people and provide an unforgettable outdoor experience in one of Scotland’s most inspiring natural settings, delivering significant social, health and environmental benefits.”

The environment around Loch Tay contains important semi natural oak woodlands and the individuals behind the plan say any development will be sensitive to the site.

Two consultations will be held at McLean Hall, Fearnan, on 27th October and 2nd December, with a formal application likely to be submitted early in 2027.