Land Reforms 'Could Raise £4m In Taxes'

Local authorities could be given the powers to legally take over common land and put it to better use.

It's under new land reform proposals being discussed by MSPs. If passed, they'll also make land ownership and value more transparant, and remove tax exemptions for hunting and shooting estates - which could be worth around £4m to the Scottish economy. The Conservatives introduced exemptions on business rates for gamekeepers in 1995.

Convener of the Rural Affairs, Climate Change and Environment Committee, Rob Gibson MSP said:

"The Committee’s call for views is an opportunity for people to influence the future of land ownership and use by voicing their views and opinions on the issues that matter to them. The Government’s bill covers significant issues, such as land reform, tenant farming and deer management. Its ambitious aim is to ensure land ownership and use in Scotland benefits all. It is crucial we get this right.

"We hope to hear views and opinions from across the country on the fundamental and important issue of how Scotland’s land should be owned and managed to benefit us all. It’s crucial that the valuable knowledge, experience and expertise of everyone in Scotland with a vested interest in our land’s future feed into our work where possible."