Crofting Commission

Scotland in the UK and Europe

Crofting Commission

The Crofting Commission is a statutory body responsible for the regulation and promotion of the interests of crofting within the Highlands and Islands of Scotland. Established under the Crofters (Scotland) Act 1955 and reconstituted as the Crofting Commission by the Crofting Reform (Scotland) Act 2010, it plays a pivotal role in ensuring the sustainability of crofting communities by regulating crofting practices, resolving disputes, and providing guidance and support to crofters.

History

The origins of the Crofting Commission can be traced back to the late 19th century, following a series of land reforms aimed at addressing the issues faced by crofters in Scotland. The Crofters Holdings (Scotland) Act 1886 was the first significant legislation, establishing a system of fair rents and security of tenure for crofters. Over the years, the scope of legislation expanded to further protect and support crofting, culminating in the establishment of the Crofters Commission in 1955. The Commission was tasked with overseeing crofting regulation and supporting the development of crofting communities. In 2010, the Crofting Reform (Scotland) Act reconstituted the Crofters Commission as the Crofting Commission, modernizing its structure and functions to better serve the needs of contemporary crofting.

Functions and Responsibilities

The Crofting Commission's primary functions include:

• Regulating crofting, ensuring that crofts are occupied and used efficiently and sustainably.
• Resolving disputes between crofters and between crofters and landlords.
• Managing the Common Grazings to ensure they are used sustainably and in the interests of all entitled to graze livestock on them.
• Approving applications for assignation, subletting, and division of crofts.
• Ensuring compliance with the duties of crofters and landlords under the Crofting Acts.

Structure

The Crofting Commission is headquartered in Inverness, Scotland, and operates under the governance of a board of commissioners. Commissioners are appointed by the Scottish Government, with one commissioner nominated by each of the six crofting counties and three additional commissioners appointed to represent the interests of the wider public. This structure ensures that the Commission is well-informed about local issues and can make decisions that reflect the needs and priorities of crofting communities.

Challenges and Future Directions

The Crofting Commission faces several challenges, including addressing the decline in crofting practices, promoting the economic viability of crofting, and adapting to the impacts of climate change. To address these challenges, the Commission works closely with crofters, local communities, and other stakeholders to develop policies and initiatives that support the sustainable development of crofting. Looking forward, the Commission aims to continue modernizing crofting legislation and practices to ensure that crofting remains a vital part of Scotland's rural economy and cultural heritage.

See Also

• Croft (land)
• Agriculture in Scotland
• Land reform in Scotland