Land Managers - Access Rights and Reponsibilities

What are the responsibilities of the public?

The Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003 gives everyone a statutory right of access to most land and water in Scotland for recreation, education and some commercial uses. People must exercise their access rights responsibly, which means acting in ways that are lawful, reasonable and respectful of other people, and the natural and cultural heritage. The rights apply to almost all non-motorised forms of transport, including walking, horse riding, cycling and canoeing. These rights and responsibilities are explained fully in the Scottish Outdoor Access Code (the Code).

What are the responsibilities of land managers?

Land managers must use and manage their land in a way that respects people who are exercising access rights. You can do this by:

• Acting reasonably when asking people to avoid land management operations;

• Working with the Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA) and other bodies to help integrate access and land management;

• Taking account of access rights even if some of your land isn’t covered by access rights.

What can the CNPA do to help?

The CNPA can help land managers by supporting management plans, providing signage and advising on the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003. To find out more contact us.