Concentrated ownership, absentee landlords and a lack of transparency in how land is managed are some of the concerns the public has over land in Scotland, according to a new report published by the Scottish Land Commission.
Developed through the ScotLand Futures initiative, the report reflects contributions from more than 1,200 people, with over 96 per cent saying Scotland needs change.
The report identified several key themes:
- Around one in 20 people said it is far too difficult to find out who owns land and called for clearer, more accessible information.
- Nearly one in four people highlighted concerns about too much land being held by too few, limiting opportunities for homes, jobs and community development.
- Around one in five people said absentee ownership creates distance and a lack of accountability, and that landowners should be more connected to local communities.
- More than one in 10 people felt locked out of decisions about land use and want earlier, more meaningful involvement in shaping what happens locally.
- Around one in 40 people expressed frustration about derelict or unused land and called for stronger action to bring these sites back into use.
- Almost one in 10 people said tax could be used more effectively to support fairer, more productive and more accountable land use.
Michael Russell, chair of the Scottish Land Commission, said: “This research confirms that people across Scotland believe the country’s land reform journey is not yet complete. The findings highlight a broad desire for greater transparency, a more diverse pattern of ownership, and more meaningful opportunities for communities to shape decisions that affect them.
“People want to see land used productively and responsibly, and they want long-standing challenges to be addressed with greater clarity and purpose. With more than 96 per cent of respondents calling for change, it is evident that continued progress on land reform remains an important national priority.”
A companion publication, Voices from Scotland, provides additional perspectives from community leaders, landowners, young people, campaigners and practitioners, contributing to a broader national conversation about the next steps in Scotland’s land reform journey.