What does the community land unit do?
The aim of our community land team is to increase the role of communities in the ownership and management of land and land assets, and the sustainable management of these resources for the benefit of the community. In the process of achieving its aims and objectives, the team will encourage diversity and experimentation in community land initiatives. The objectives of the community land team are:1) To promote community-led land purchase or management initiatives, including joint management and other partnership arrangements with existing owners The team actively monitors prospects for community land purchase in the Highlands and Islands, and works practically with landowners and community organisations in exploiting opportunities, where these have the potential to lead to long-term, sustainable, socio-economic and environmental benefit for local communities. The concept is also promoted through support of conferences, case study work and a database of initiatives designed to stimulate new activities based on existing experience. 2) To provide advice and support for community land initiatives, incorporating the exchange of best practice Community involvement in land initiatives progresses through a series of stages:
Currently, a range of agencies offers advice and support services to assist at all stages of the process. This includes local authorities, Scottish Natural Heritage, Forest Enterprise and Local Enterprise Companies. The team works in partnership with agencies and non-governmental organisations to maximise the integration of existing mechanisms, in an effort to provide a comprehensive response to communities requiring advice on land purchase and asset management. 3) To contribute to the research and development of policies related to community land initiatives The team undertakes a wide-ranging programme of research, in addition to preparation of responses to proposed legislation. Current research projects include a report on the opportunities for communities to benefit from renewable energy schemes, and an investigation into whether 'carbon credits' can provide an income source for community forests. Future research activity will include further work on identifying revenue-generating projects for remote communities. 4) To deliver the Scottish Land Fund on behalf of the New Opportunities Fund HIE, in partnership with Scottish Enterprise, delivers the New Opportunities Fund’s Scottish Land Fund. This £10m fund is available to rural communities throughout Scotland. |