GREATER understanding of what is good for the Scottish uplands could be on the cards if stakeholders grasp the nettle of a more strategic vision.
Comments made by Scottish Land and Estates explain that they think that landowners would back the idea of increased dialogue between stakeholders involved in upland areas. These comments come as part of their response to Scottish Natural Heritage’s recent consultation on the matter, Scoping a Strategic Vision for the Uplands.
The landowners’ organisation said that a truly strategic vision – and not one that was prescriptive – could go some way to resolving the conflicts in views that exist between various interest groups, and that have historically caused problems.
Senior policy officer for land use and environment at SL and E, Anne Gray, said: “Creating a shared vision for Scotland’s uplands can be a difficult process given the wide range of competing views about what our uplands should deliver.
“However, we would support a process which brings the various interests in the uplands together towards greater understanding of differing aspirations for these iconic areas of Scotland. 
“We would argue that any vision that is published must be truly strategic and it should not become a tool which directs the use of individual land holdings. It should be inclusive of all interests in the uplands but also recognise the decision-making processes of those who own and manage land, which are complex and uniquely individual.
The idea of a more collaborative approach, is one also backed by National Sheep Association regional chairman Sybil MacPherson. She explained: “It is incredibly important that those who live and work the land are involved in any dialogue taking place, moving forward. 
“It would be my hope that those who make a living from the land – whether they are landowners or tennants – are involved in decisions over it, because at the end of the day it’s them that make the land sustainable. People on the land on a regular basis need to be given the chance to explain what is needed. Practical people need to be included in any consultation. 
“As in interested party ourselves, we would certainly support increased consultation and dialogue between stakeholders.”
SL and E’s Anne Gray concluded: “We recognise that how land is managed matters to more than just those that own it and it is legitimate for there to be some public interest in the outputs of the Scotland’s uplands. Indeed this is a key aspect of our own landowners’ commitment. This is not least for reasons of mitigating climate change, managing flood risk and improving biodiversity as well as providing landscapes that are important to tourism and recreation.
“Overall, our message is one of support for any process that creates better dialogue between stakeholders and ensures that divergent views can be recognised and understood.”