This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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Scottish Outdoor Access Code
08/02/2005
A Scottish Outdoor Access Code was launched today as new
rights of access are about to come into force.
The legal right to responsible access provides a duty on
landowners to provide access to and across their land and
gives people more freedom to enjoy the countryside.
In return for these new rights, the public must act
responsibly and be aware of their impact on the environment
and the livelihood of those who live and work on the
land.
Speaking at Eaglescairnie Farm, Gifford, East Lothian,
Deputy Environment and Rural Development Minister Lewis
Macdonald said:
"For the first time in Scotland's history, we now have a
clear and explicit right of responsible access to our
countryside. Our land and landscape are not there only for
the exclusive use of a few: they are there for the whole
community to enjoy.
"Rights of access also bring responsibilities. The
Scottish Outdoor Access Code provides guidance on both
rights and responsibilities. To help get the message out to
the public and landowners, Scottish Natural Heritage will
follow up today's launch with an intensive publicity
campaign to increase public awareness of the Code.
"It is important that communities and individuals think
creatively to turn these new rights of access into new
economic opportunities while securing environmental
benefits.
"Michael Williams has shown at Eaglescairnie Farm how
developing paths on his land can turn access rights into
economic opportunity. I am sure it is an example many
others will follow."
Part 1 of the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003
establishes a statutory right of responsible access to land
and inland waters for outdoor recreation, crossing land,
and some educational and commercial purposes. it becomes
law on February 9.
The Scottish Outdoor Access Code which was approved by
the Scottish Parliament on July 1, 2004. Over 1,300
organisations and individuals responded to a consultation
into the proposed Code.
Local authorities and National Park Authorities in
Scotland have a wide range of duties and responsibilities
under the Act.