NFUS calls for clarity on plans for regional land use partnerships

NFU Scotland has called for more clarity on the Scottish Government’s proposed Regional Land Use Partnerships (RLUPs).

Following a webinar which featured presentations from Sally Reynolds, a Scottish land commissioner, and Fiona Taylor, head of land reform and land use at the Scottish Government, union president Andrew McCornick said he was concerned about the lack of detail available.

The speakers said R LU Ps could be an opportunity to improve land use and tackle climate change.

They also confirmed the as yet unpublished report about RLUP strategy would include recommendations the partnerships will require a direct connection to “levers of finance” and a significant role in post2024 funding.

They are also expected to have an advisory role to enable them to make decisions on land use.

Mr McCornick said: “The overarching principle of better collaboration is sound, however I am deeply concerned that agriculture, as the foremost land use in Scotland, has not featured strongly enough in the commission’ s considerations.

“I have real reservations about the cost implication of Regional Land Use Partnerships both to the public purse and to related agricultural budgets.

“NFUS has sought clarification on this but we have yet to receive a concrete answer from Scottish Government.

“Ensuring all sectors of agriculture are represented on these partnerships is a key priority for NFUS.”

NFU Scotland president Andrew McCornick.