Latest news
Dog fouling - SNH advice, March 2011
Rural development funding for access and paths
Funding for improving public access is available under the Scottish Rural Development Programme. Ramblers Scotland generally supports this funding as it should support the implementation of the Land Reform Act.
However, since 2009 there have been very few applications from land managers for access-related funding and we have concerns over the design of the scheme and the mechanisms which restrict the percentage of funding which can be applied for. For example, if land managers can only apply for 75% of funding for a path which will improve local path networks but may have no direct benefit to themselves, why should they fund the extra 25% from their own pockets? Along with land management bodies and other recreation groups, in March 2011 we met the Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Richard Lochhead MSP, and government officials to discuss the design of the next scheme from 2013.
The current main funding opportunities are:
Rural Development Contracts: Land Managers Options
Support is available for enhancing and marking paths and routes which link to local networks, give access to attractive places, or meet a local need.
Improving access
Rural Development Contracts - Rural Priorities: this is a competitive scheme which includes access options - though the priorities vary by region.
Rural priorities
The "Woodlands In and Around Towns" and "Forestry for People" Challenge Funds aim to improve the condition of existing woodlands for the benefit of local people. Both funds are administered by Forestry Commission Scotland under the Scotland Rural Development Programme.
Challenge funds
LEADER is part of the Scottish Rural Development Programme, promoting economic and community development within rural areas. It is aimed at community and business networks and could support access and path development around communities.
LEADER
Beyond the CAP
Ramblers Scotland recently contributed to a Scottish Environment LINK report on the future of European land use policies. This recommends a radical shift in CAP funding into policies that deliver more public goods – including supporting better access to the countryside.
Beyond the CAP
Walking in fields of livestock
The Scottish Outdoor Access Code gives clear advice on how to cross farmland responsibly, whether that is fields of crops, grass or animals. While most people are aware of the need to Beware of the Bull, do remember that all livestock can potentially be dangerous, especially cows with young calves. If you can't use an alternative route through another field, keep a safe distance from farm animals and watch them carefully. If you have a dog, do not go into fields where there are young animals present, and if cattle react aggressively towards you, let the dog go. Read guidance from the Health & Safety Executive on cattle and access in Scotland here.
