Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003

The Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003 establishes rights for the public to access private land in Scotland for recreational and educational purposes, provided they do so responsibly. It also grants communities increased rights to purchase land or buildings for development, conservation, or sustainable use. The Act aims to promote responsible outdoor access while balancing property rights, encourage community involvement in land use, and enhance transparency and accountability in land ownership. Overall, it seeks to create a fairer relationship between landowners and the public, supporting social, environmental, and economic benefits.