Land reform is focus of public meeting in Wick

AN informal public meeting is being held in Wick next week as part of a series of events highlighting how communities can benefit from land reform.

The session is being held by the Scottish Land Commission and takes place at the Pulteney Centre on Wednesday, October 23, starting at 7pm.

Commission chairman Andrew Thin said: “Land is at the heart of Scotland’s identity, economy and communities – so it matters that it is owned and used in a fair and productive way. We are keen to meet with communities to discuss the work we are doing to deliver change so that the ownership and use of land realises Scotland’s potential.

“There are many benefits it can bring to you and your community, including transforming vacant and derelict land, community ownership, community engagement in decisions relating to land and unlocking opportunities through modernising land ownership.

“We will also be discussing our recently published report investigation into the issues associated with large-scale and concentrated land ownership in Scotland. The report was published earlier this year alongside recommendations to Scottish ministers to address the adverse effects identified, and to stimulate a more productive, diverse and dynamic pattern of rural land ownership.

“This is one of a number of public meetings taking place across Scotland throughout the year from Aberdeen to Kirkcaldy and from Paisley to Perth and we hope to meet as many people as possible. I would encourage everyone to attend and make the most of the opportunity to discuss how we can make more of Scotland’s land for Scotland’s people.”

The event is free and tea and coffee will be provided. For more information visit www.landcommission.gov.scot, call 01463 423 300 or email info@landcommission.gov.scot

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