Limited partnership guidelines published

A new code of practice for planning the future of limited partnerships has been published by Scotland’s Tenant Farming Commissioner.

Bob McIntosh, who is based at the Scottish Land Commission in Inverness, said the code was designed to be followed by landowners, tenant farmers and land agents.

It is the second code of practice to be published by Mr McIntosh under the authority of the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2016.

“The aim of this code of practice is to minimise uncertainty for both parties in a limited partnership when it is approaching its dissolution date,” said Mr McIntosh.

“The code describes what steps should be taken, by both the tenant farmer and the landlord, when discussing future arrangements for the partnership.”

He said limited partnership arrangements had served the tenant farming sector well, however they now have restricted use following the passing of the Agricultural Holdings (Scotland) Act 2003.

“There are over 500 limited partnerships still in existence and many are reaching their dissolution date,” he added.

“It is important discussions take place with plenty of time for both parties involved to discuss their aspirations before a final decision is agreed to the future of the partnership.

“As with all codes issued by the Tenant Farming Commissioner, if a landlord or tenant feels that the other party, or an agent of that party, has acted in a way that breaches the code of practice they are able to make a complaint to the Commissioner.”

The code has been developed in conjunction with the Scottish Tenant Farmers’ Association, NFU Scotland, Scottish Land and Estates, and the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors.

Bob McIntosh.