The Scottish Government has initiated a new consultation, seeking public input on how to strengthen legal rights that enable community groups to take ownership of local land and assets.

This move follows extensive discussions held since last year with various stakeholders involved in the existing Rights to Buy framework.

Since its introduction in 2003, the Community Right to Buy has seen 268 applications from community groups aiming to acquire their own assets. Of these, 175 – approximately two-thirds – have received approval from Scottish Ministers.

Rural Affairs and Land Reform Secretary Mairi Gougeon highlighted the evolution of these rights. "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," she explained.

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Ms Gougeon acknowledged the complexities of the current system. "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," she added. She encouraged all interested parties to participate in the 12-week consultation, which aims to help Scotland maintain its leading position in driving community ownership and investment in land and assets. The consultation, published on Monday, 7 July 2025, will close on Sunday, 5 October 2025.

Michael Russell, Chair of the Scottish Land Commission, underscored the importance of community involvement. "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," he commented.

Mr Russell also noted the Commission's supportive role: "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."