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Call for views about the Scottish Outdoor Access Code
Two decades of the right to roam: the Rural Affairs Committee wants to know if Scotland’s outdoor access system works for you?
Walkers, cyclists, campers, land managers and outdoor businesses are among those being asked to share their views on how Scotland’s access rights are working, more than 20 years after the Scottish Outdoor Access Code was introduced.
In a new inquiry, the Rural Affairs Committee is exploring how well Scotland’s outdoor access system is working and whether any improvements are needed.
Often called the “right to roam”, access rights allow people to be on most land and inland water in Scotland, as long as they act responsibly.
The Scottish Outdoor Access Code sets out what acting responsibly means in practice. It sits alongside the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003 and the duties of public bodies, balancing public enjoyment of the outdoors with the needs of those who own and manage land.
The Committee wants to know whether the system is working as it should be, in light of developments such as flying drones and e-bike use, the growing popularity of activities such as paddleboarding and wild swimming, and changing land management practices including peatland restoration, woodland creation and renewable energy projects. The Committee is also seeking views on how path networks are being maintained and funded.
Mark Ruskell MSP, Convener of the Rural Affairs Committee, said:
“Scotland’s outdoor access system is often regarded as one of the most progressive in the world, giving everyone the right to access countryside and coastline for work, learning and recreation.
“In February, the Scottish Outdoor Access Code will be 22 years old. But with the way we access the outdoors and how we use the land changing, we want to understand how the outdoor access system is working in practice, whether it meets the needs of people today and what changes might be needed to make sure it is fit for the future.
“The Committee wants to hear from anyone with an interest in Scotland’s outdoor access system, from walkers, cyclists and campers to those who manage land or represent an organisation with a responsibility or interest in access rights. We also want to hear about how development and maintenance of our path networks are being funded.
“I encourage you to share your experiences and views to help inform our inquiry.”
The Committee’s Call for Views is open until Monday 23 November: Outdoor access – Scottish Parliament – Citizen Space
Find out more about the Committee’s inquiry: Outdoor access | Scottish Parliament Website
