ACCESS has been an unprecedented issue for NFU Scotland members over the past two years as the number of people walking in the countryside surged because of the Covid pandemic.
Many of those taking access in the country since March 2020 were new or previously infrequent visitors.
The Scottish Outdoor Access Code, approved 17 years ago, sets out the rights of responsible access and provides practical guidance for both landowners and the public on how to ensure safe and responsible enjoyment of the countryside.
In November, NFU Scotland asked its members to share their views on the Code and how it operates for farmers and crofters in its current form, and it had a fantastic response. The results of the survey highlighted that Scotland’s farmers and crofters consider that the Scottish Outdoor Access Code is no longer effective for landowners, and that a review is required to offer modernised guidance that fits the scale and type of access that is now taking place.
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NFU Scotland’s Vice President Robin Traquair said: “Our members have made it clear in their response to our survey that the Scottish Outdoor Access Code is no longer fit for purpose and needs to be updated.
“The Code has not been formally reviewed for 17 years since it was first approved by Scottish Parliament in 2004. The past couple of years of increased access have shown that more needs to be done to protect Scottish farmers and crofters’ ability to safely produce the high quality, sustainable food and drink expected by consumers.
“The Scottish Countryside is a beautiful working environment, and to protect it for all who want to enjoy it NFU Scotland have been discussing the issues with Edward Mountain MSP, who is engaging with a range of stakeholders and seeking a review of the Access Code to bring it up to date.
“That is something that our members clearly support.”
