Shaping the Future of Land Management: Key Takeaways from SLE’s Training Day

Hamish Hope, Senior Surveyor, Beauly, attended the annual Scottish Land and Estates (SLE) Land Managers Training Day at Perth Racecourse on 26th March, joined by colleagues from Bell Ingram’s Rural team. This flagship CPD event brought industry professionals together to tackle key challenges and share knowledge. Here are the key takeaways:

• Scottish Land Reform Bill Update: Stephen Young (SLE) provided insights as the Bill was debated in Parliament that same day. Expect significant changes ahead.
• Compulsory Purchase & Infrastructure: Scott Logan (Brodies LLP) outlined powers under the Electricity Act, critical for land managers dealing with 400kV power lines and A9/A96 dualling projects.
• Housing & Energy Efficiency: Anna Gardiner (SLE) highlighted the 2027 requirement for agricultural tenancy properties to meet the repairing standard. Questions remain over landlord vs. tenant responsibilities.
• Biodiversity & Future Land Use: Joseph Dance & Francesca Fowler-Walsh (Savills) stressed the need to benchmark biodiversity now to prepare for a potential credit system. AI could drive efficiencies.
• Agricultural Support & Policy Changes: Eleanor Kay (SLE) unpacked key schemes, including the Agricultural Reform Programme and Future Farming Investment Scheme. The industry is changing fast – staying informed is essential.
• Workshops in Action: Hamish attended sessions on maximising compensation from access rights and best practices for community engagement (Scottish Land Commission). Both provided invaluable, real-world insights.

The day wrapped up with an expert panel tackling industry-wide questions. It was an insightful and engaging event – essential for keeping ahead of sector developments. Looking forward to next year!