Crofts 'being priced out of locals' reach'

Published on Thursday 1 November 2007 01:17

INCREASING demand and high prices are putting crofts out of the reach of local people, an inquiry into the future of crofting has found.

Evidence gathered so far shows opinion is split on whether crofters should be allowed to sell land to the highest bidder.

However, even those who favour a free market admit it is contributing to the demise of crofting.

The committee of inquiry, led by Professor Mark Shucksmith, was set up last year to examine how crofting can best contribute to the economy, social infrastructure and environment of rural Scotland. It is due to report next year.

The committee was established followed criticism of the Crofting Reform Bill which the then Scottish Executive was forced to change substantially.

Yesterday, the committee released evidence from 17 public meetings held during the summer which were attended by 850 people, and 300 written submissions 78 per cent of which were from crofters.

The reports show that most people consider crofting contributes to maintaining population in remote areas and to a rich culture and diverse habitats in many crofting areas.

However, it was felt that affordable housing, better access to crofts, better grant schemes and improved economic returns from crofts would encourage new entrants and retain current crofters.

Although agriculture is still thought to be at the heart of crofting, many people felt that income derived from agriculture is a relatively small proportion of household income and opportunities for diversification and off-croft employment are vital.

Prof Shucksmith said: "The committee is now considering all the evidence and starting to formulate our vision for the future of crofting."