Scottish public to have more say on 'shape and future' of land

The Scottish Government wants to end the ‘stop-start’ nature of land reform
The Scottish Government wants to end the ‘stop-start’ nature of land reform

The Scottish public will be able to have more say on the shape and future of ownership, management and use of land in Scotland.

Last week, the Scottish Government opened a consultation on the Land Rights and Responsibilities Statement, which will underpin a range of Scottish Government strategies related to land rights and responsibilities.

It will support a commitment to build a fairer society in Scotland and promote environmental sustainability, economic prosperity and social justice.

The statement is also likely to have a significant impact on the work of the new Scottish Land Commission which becomes operational in April.

Cabinet Secretary for Land Reform Roseanna Cunningham said: “The Land and Rights and Responsibilities Statement is a world-leading undertaking, which will be central to the Government’s commitment to long-term land reform.

“Land reform is concerned with both urban and rural communities and impacts on every single person in Scotland. This consultation will give everyone the opportunity to shape the future of our land to create a fairer and more prosperous nation.

“Our vision is that the ownership, management and use of land in Scotland should contribute to the collective benefit of the people of Scotland. A fair, inclusive and productive system of land rights and responsibilities should deliver greater public benefits and promote economic, social and cultural rights.

“Moreover, the Statement will be the basis for a strong and consistent vision running through Government policy and the work of the new Scottish Land Commission.”