Discussions with those who have engaged with the community rights to buy have been taking place since last year to develop the proposals published for consultation today.

Since 2003, 268 applications for community rights to buy have been received from community groups seeking to acquire their own assets, with two-thirds of these (175) approved by Scottish Ministers.

Rural Affairs and Land Reform Secretary Mairi Gougeon said: “The first community right to buy was introduced more than 20 years ago in the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003. Those rights have since been extended to cover rural, urban and crofting communities, pre-emptive and compulsory rights, neglected land and assets, and land to support the sustainable development of communities.

“Our discussions with stakeholders have shown that the rights to buy process can be complicated and demanding.  These insights have helped us set out proposed improvements that we are now seeking views on.

“I would encourage anyone with an interest to take part in this consultation over the next 12 weeks to help Scotland remain a world leader in driving community ownership and investment in our land and assets.”

Chair of the Scottish Land Commission, Michael Russell, said: “Community rights to buy give people a real chance to take an active role in the future of their local places. This consultation is an important step to ensure these rights remain clear, practical and effective in helping communities take ownership of land and buildings that matter to them.

“We are pleased to be chairing a reference group to support the Scottish government’s review, and we encourage everyone with an interest to share their views through this consultation.”

Respond to the consultation here.