Scotland launches consultation on large landholding management

The Scottish government has opened a public consultation regarding the Community Engagement Obligations and draft guidance for large landholdings under the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2025. The proposals aim to provide communities with more influence over how landholdings exceeding 1,000 hectares are managed.

The consultation seeks feedback on the specific information to be included in mandatory Land Management Plans and the methods landowners should use to involve local communities in their creation. Additionally, the government is considering new processes for community groups to request land leases or establish crofts, alongside potential enforcement measures for non-compliance.

Climate Action and Rural Affairs Secretary Gillian Martin stated that the Act reflects a commitment to a “fairer, more transparent and more inclusive system of land ownership and use.” To accommodate the festive period, the consultation period has been extended to 14 weeks.