This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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One hundred new crofts for Shetland
04/11/2005
Up to one hundred new crofts could be created on Shetland as a result of the Crofting Reform Bill.
Deputy Rural Development Minister Rhona Brankin visited the island today to meet local people to consult on proposals in the Bill.
Crofters had the opportunity to discuss the contribution that they make to the islands, and how the draft Bill will impact on their lives and work.
Ms Brankin said:
"I am committed to delivering a well populated and economically diverse countryside here in Shetland and throughout the Highlands and Islands.
"Our Crofting Reform Bill is tailor made to help us achieve that vision.
"It is designed to make the creation of new crofts easier and quicker for the first time in decades.
"This will benefit local people on Shetland who are currently unable to access croft land as well as attracting new residents to the island with new skills to help both the community and crofting to prosper.
"I am delighted to see people on Shetland seizing this exciting new rural development opportunity and already considering a pilot project to create up to one hundred new crofts."
Shetland Isles Council is examining the concept of new crofts through the development of a pilot project or projects, proposals for which would be the subject of a further report to the council in due course.