The Courier & Advertiser (Angus and Dundee)
Parties must map out their rural vision
Early spring always brings a feeling of anticipation – lambs are here, crops and grass are growing, we have had good news on potential lifting of Covid restrictions, and there is an election on the way too.
It’s always an interesting time to look forward over the next five years and hear from political parties what their vision is and how they would seek to mould policies for rural Scotland.
Scottish Land and Estates (SLE) also publishes a manifesto and we have laid out what we believe are major issues for rural businesses.
The key element is looking to reinvigorate rural Scotland for people, jobs and nature and we can only be successful if each element is delivered. Economic, environmental and social capital in rural areas are interconnected so it is vital that all are considered together.
In terms of our specific asks, some are very clear.
We need long-term vision and principles around agricultural support to enable planning and where needed, system changes must be started.
Backing this up, we need to promote the quality of Scottish produce. This must be led by public procurement – a commitment by government and others to support our produce and understand the full economic benefit as the money trickles down through the economy.
And while we all want people to enjoy what rural Scotland has to offer, both as tourists and as locals, we also need to protect our environment from irresponsible behaviour.
Long-term investment is required to provide countryside rangers to guide visitors and ensure they do no harm. Similarly we need clear public messages outlining what responsible behaviour looks like.
Allied to this we need to review how fly-tipping is tackled. We want to see a proper database to log where incidents occur and to remove the liability for the costly clean-up operation from the landowner who has been the victim of a crime.
More must be done to prevent fly-tipping. This major problem is threatening to get out of hand and potentially spoil what Scotland is famous for – stunning scenery, great food and drink and a welcoming feeling.
Other issues we would like to see addressed are “rural proofing” of policies to ensure there are no unintended consequences of attempts to fix urban issues, and putting rural areas first when considering enhanced connectivity.