Public asked for views on plans to improve system of land ownership

It is believed that half of the country is privately-owned land held by 432 owners.

Public asked for views on plans to improve system of land ownership in Scotland iStock

Members of the public are being asked to give their views on proposals aiming to improve Scotland’s system of land ownership.

A consultation on new land reform legislation has been launched by the Scottish Government.

It is believed that half of the country is privately-owned land held by 432 owners.

Of those, 16 are estimated to own 10% of the country.

The figures were outlined by lands rights campaigner and former Scottish Green MSP Andy Wightman.

Ministers are aiming to bring forward a Bill to address “long-standing concerns” about a highly concentrated pattern of land ownership in rural areas of Scotland.

It would also seek to ensure that land is owned, managed and used in ways that meet present-day challenges.

The Scottish Government has previously outlined its intention to “up the pace” at which community bodies are able to take ownership of land in Scotland.

Land reform minister Mairi McAllan will visit The Ecology Centre in Fife on Monday to announce the consultation.

The consultation will close on September 25 this year.

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