This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Continued progress in re-use of vacant and derelict sites in scotland
27/03/2001
DEPT
The level of unused and derelict land in Scotland is at an all-time low according to statistics published today by Transport and Planning Minister Sarah Boyack.
The Scottish Vacant and Derelict Land survey 2000 shows that the level of unused land has continued to fall with 381 sites, covering 600 hectares, being reclaimed or brought back into use in 2000.
The most common new use for reclaimed land was residential development. A further 205 hectares, from 71 sites, were redefined as no longer being vacant or derelict.
However 356 new sites were identified, covering a total area of just under 550 hectares. Despite this, the new figures represent a record low of vacant and derelict land in Scotland of 11,683 hectares.
Sarah Boyack said:
"Vacant and derelict sites are wasted resources and the Executive is determined that they should be brought back into use to improve the amenity of our communities and, in doing so, reduce the pressure for new development on greenfield sites.
"We are encouraged by the figures released today which continue the recent trend and show that the efforts being made to encourage the re-use of previously developed sites are being rewarded."
BACKGROUND
1. The bulletin Scottish Vacant and Derelict Land Survey 2000 is available to the public from the Stationery Office Bookshop, 71 Lothian Road, Edinburgh, EH3 9AZ (Tel. 0131 479 3141). The bulletin costs £2.00.
- Media copies are available by telephoning Alison Grieve on 0131 244 3069.
News Release: SE0812/2001
27 Mar 2001