The Scottish Government is in the process of reforming crofting so that it is fit for the 21st century.
Crofting contributes to the Government's purpose, which is to create a more successful country, with opportunities for all of Scotland to flourish, through sustainable economic growth.
It contributes to key national outcomes such as strong, resilient and supportive communities where people take responsibility for their own actions, and a built and natural environment that we value, enjoy, protect and enhance for future generations.
Proposals for Reform
A package of measures was annnounced by the Scottish Government in October 2008, in response to the Committee of Inquiry on Crofting Report. These proposals include:
- A new crofting bill and a consolidation on crofting law
- Reconstituting the Crofters Commission with up to six area committees that will include crofters elected by crofters
- Making Highlands and Islands Enterprise the lead organisation for the development of crofting communities
- Giving the Registers of Scotland responsibility for establishing a Register of Crofts
- Giving consideration to an occupancy condition on housing built on land taken out of crofting tenure to address speculation on croft land for second homes
- Undertaking a review of support for croft housing and support for croft agriculture with an emphasis on supporting new entrants to crofting
- Encouraging the creation of new crofts, especially on public land