NFU Scotland has welcomed the launch, by Perth & Kinross Countryside Trust, of the Farmers and Landowners Access Grant Scheme (FLAGS).

The scheme is aimed at helping land managers to provide new or improved public access to increase public enjoyment of the countryside while minimising the impact on land users. It also aims to increase awareness and understanding of rural land use.

Perth & Kinross Countryside Trust is a partnership between Perth & Kinross Council, Scottish Natural Heritage, Scottish Enterprise Tayside, Forestry Commission Scotland and the Gannochy Trust. The Trust’s aims focus on providing and promoting high quality opportunities for access and recreation throughout Perth & Kinross for the benefit of the community as a whole.

FLAGS grants will not be replacing grants available through SEERAD, Forestry Commission Scotland or other government grant schemes, but will instead compliment these schemes.

Sue Hilder, NFU Scotland Access Officer, said:

“NFU Scotland is fully in support of assisting responsible public access to the countryside and our primary concern is that this is done at little or no inconvenience to farmers and landowners. Therefore, I very much welcome this new scheme which will assist land managers in providing access to members of the public whilst avoiding any disruption to land management operations.

“The majority of access takers prefer to use waymarked routes which help to direct them. This in turn benefits land managers by helping people to avoid sensitive areas of the farm. Self-closing gates, advisory signs and parking provision help to keep livestock contained, keep people on managed paths and prevent car damage to the roadside, all of which make access a smoother and easier process for the land manager.

“Thanks to the FLAGS scheme, land users in Perth & Kinross will be assisted in making these provisions and keeping access as painless as possible.”

NFUS Welcomes Announcement of Access Funding
Villagers And Visitors Enjoy Rural Retreat With Access For All
Celebrations as Right of Open Access Implemented Across England