“Hello, I’m Willie Baird. I’ve been farming at Nethershiel since the early 70’s. The farm is 174 acres of arable land, classified in soil quality as mainly grade two, with some grade three.
My father was a farmer and I’ve always enjoyed the farming life. Each season brings new challenges and you pit your wits against the weather on a daily basis. It’s really satisfying to harvest a good crop that’s been managed well throughout the season.
In these last 20 years, prices paid for our produce haven’t increased and in some cases have actually declined. We did have a large pig herd up till 3 years ago but were forced to stop due to low prices and increasing costs. The farm has become uneconomic to run which is really disappointing.
However I’m pleased that the land will be productive again, supporting a wonderful new community. It’s a great place to live, with the Country Park on your doorstep.”
Context : Identity
Calderwood Development Area
The farm land involved in the Calderwood development largely comprises of two farms, Overshiel and Nethershiel. Both are small arable farms, whose soil classification is grade 2 and 3, decent arable land but not the best grade 1.
Nethershiel farm buildings included a large piggery, which is now closed and in disrepair. The farms are bounded by the Country Park to the north, with Camps industrial estate to the south. Both farms have struggled ecconomically and their steadings are in various states of dilapidation.
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