THE BRIEF

Securing planning permission for Scotland’s first commercial gold mine in 500 years.

Scotgold Resources appointed Orbit Communications to support planning permission for the Cononish Gold Mine near Tyndrum – Scotland’s first commercial gold mine in more than 500 years.

A previous planning application had been refused by the Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority, with concerns raised over environmental impacts and the project’s economic case.

We were brought in to develop a strategic communications programme that would rebuild confidence, demonstrate the mine’s economic value and secure planning approval.

Our Approach

  • Developed and delivered a proactive public affairs and media relations strategy.
  • Built a broad coalition of support from politicians, business organisations, tourism bodies and local stakeholders, including the community council.
  • Commissioned independent economic analysis to provide a robust evidence base and address concerns raised during the previous application.
  • Worked with training provider Edutrain to develop a local apprenticeship programme, demonstrating long-term employment and skills benefits.
  • Positioned the project around sustainable economic growth, job creation and investment while responding to environmental concerns through clear, evidence-led communications.
  • Generated extensive regional, national and international media coverage to raise awareness and reinforce positive messaging.

5,187,000
print reach

1,608,000
online views

700,000
TV and radio audience

Outputs & Outcomes

  • Support delivered from a variety of local and national organisations, including the Helensburgh & Lomond Chamber of Commerce, CBI Scotland and the British Jewellers Association.
  • More than 200 positive media articles generated across Scotland, the UK and internationally.
  • Coverage achieved in leading outlets including BBC, ITV, The Times, BBC World Service and the Sydney Morning Herald.
  • Delivered over 40 million opportunities to see through national and international media coverage.
  • Helped unlock a project expected to create more than 50 permanent jobs and establish a new mining industry in Scotland.
  • Secured planning permission for Scotland’s first commercial gold mine in over 500 years following unanimous approval by the National Park Board.

 

“The actions of Orbit Communications were absolutely fundamental to us getting planning approval, and we cannot commend them highly enough.”


Chris Sangster, Scotgold Resources