Proposals to simplify crofting regulation, encourage more use of
common grazings and a range of other changes have received high
levels of support in a recent consultation.
The Scottish Government has published an independent analysis of
the responses to the consultation on proposals for Crofting Law
Reform, together with those responses where consent to publish
was given.
The consultation covered potential legislative changes to:
- support entry to crofting
- to clarify the community aspect of crofting law
- to promote use of common grazings, including for
environmental purposes
- to strengthen adherence to crofters' duties
- to modify the Crofting Commission's regulatory roles and
powers
- to make simplifications and corrections to current
legislation
More than 160 responses were received during the three-month
consultation, with a further 257 people attending 15 events
across crofting counties in July and August, to debate the key
proposals.
Minister for Agriculture said:
“Most of the Government's proposals were well supported by the
consultation responses, though I recognise that some proposals
received less strong backing. We will give full
consideration to all the responses and will discuss key issues
further with the Crofting Bill Group.
“I am grateful to everyone who took time to share their views and
look forward to continuing to work with crofting communities to
ensure that the sector is supported and can attract a new
generation.”
Background
Crofting Consultation
2024: Proposals for Crofting Law Reform – Analysis of Responses -
gov.scot (www.gov.scot)
The Crofting Bill Group is made up of a full range of
stakeholders in crofting and crofting law. It was
re-established in 2022 to advise the Scottish Government on
priorities and options for Crofting Law Reform.
Consultation events were held at:
- 3 July - Inverness
- 4 July - Thurso
- 9 July - Ullapool
- 11 July - Kinlochbervie
- 17 July - Skye
- 18 July - Lairg
- 22 July - Yell
- 23 July - Lerwick
- 29 July - Spean Bridge
- 30 July - Oban
- 31 July - Tiree
- 12 August - Stornoway
- 13 August - Harris
- 14 August - Benbecula
- 15 August - Castlebay
