In advance of the imminent introduction of new Access Legislation in Scotland, Tourism & Environment Forum member, the Scottish Rural Property and Business Association (SRPBA), has launched a comprehensive pack titled 'Managing Access: Guidance for Owners and Managers of Land'. The new publication provides land managers with the information they require in a straightforward format to assess the implications of access for other land management activities, and outlines a range of access management techniques that will help the integration process.

The guide covers a range of topics including working with the Local Authority on core paths, path agreements and path orders; liability; the Disability Discrimination Act; and commercial access. It presents a range of scenarios covering some of the main topographical and business situations for land managers. These include farmyards, fields with crops, fields with livestock, woodland, open ground and hill ground, low ground, and rivers and lochs. Each scenario identifies potential access issues and management options.

Speaking at the launch on the 11th January, John Don, Chairman of the Scottish Rural Property and Business Association said;

"This publication will assist those who manage land or inland water with the integration of access into their everyday business. We hope that all our members will find it of benefit as a source of advice and information, and that non-members can gain from it also."

"During the consultation process in the run-up to the legislation being passed, many concerns were raised by land managers over access issues. This Guidance can play a valuable part in easing the implementation of the legislation, as well as offering an easy-to-use source of information."

The guide has been produced with the support of Scottish Natural Heritage and the Paths for all Partnership. The first copy is free to SRPBA members. Additional copies and copies for non-members carry a cover price of £10.00.

For more information:

• SRPBA
• or contact Marian Silvester on 0131 653 5400/01387 811587