When did plans for land reform in Scotland begin?
The land reform policy group, chaired by Lord Sewel the then UK minister for agriculture, the environment and fisheries, was set up in October 1997. It was tasked with looking at the costs and necessary legislation needed to implement land reform. Scottish Natural Heritage was also asked to take part in the review. It looked at what legal changes would be necessary if access was to be given to ordinary members of the public. What was decided? The policy group published its report in January 1999 and recommended a whole raft of measures including proposed legislation regarding agricultural holdings, crofting, conservation, community ownership of land and access. What is the community right to buy? A community in a rural area must first establish a recognised group of people who can also apply for charitable status. They then register with the minister their interest in the land they would like to purchase. This is logged and runs for five years, although interests can be re-registered.
