Friday 29 March 2024
 6.1°C   SE Light Breeze
Ocean Kinetics - The Engineering Experts

News / Crown Estate devolution passed

SHETLAND Islands Council and other local authorities will finally have a say how the seabed and other Crown Estate assets in Scotland are being managed.

The Scottish Crown Estate Bill, passed by the Scottish Parliament on Wednesday, gives communities a stronger voice and allows for more opportunities for local control and responsibilities.

Shetland MSP Tavish Scott, who has championed the cause for an enhanced seabed management role for many years, said the bill was paving the way for the devolution of seabed powers to the islands.

Shetland MSP Tavish Scott

“Shetland has waited too long to take the responsibility for managing the seabed around our coastline,” he said.

“Now parliament has passed a law that makes this happen. As our local council works with others on a new marine plan for Sullom Voe, this law allows real devolution of management and responsibility.”

He added: “I am pleased that the position of trust ports has been recognised in this law too. This means that a trust port, such as Lerwick, can if they wish take responsibility for the seabed in their harbour area.

“It is right that this power now exists and that local decision making can, if desired, happen.”

Land reform minister Roseanna Cunningham: “I believe strongly in maximising the benefits of the Crown Estate for our communities, which is why I am delighted that parliament has agreed to open up the possibility for local authorities and communities to take direct control of the management of these assets.

“This bill represents a significant step in reforming the management of the Scottish Crown Estate and in empowering our communities. I look forward to visiting a part of the estate that is taken on by a local community in due course.”

Crown Estate Scotland manages assets that stretch the length and breadth of Scotland, including agricultural and forestry land, most of the seabed, just under half of the foreshore and some commercial property.

Shetland Islands Council said it welcomes the passing of the bill but did not comment further.

Become a supporter of Shetland News

Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider start paying for their dose of the latest local news delivered straight to their PC, tablet or mobile phone.

Journalism comes at a price and because that price is not being paid in today’s rapidly changing media world, most publishers - national and local - struggle financially despite very healthy audience figures.

Most online publishers have started charging for access to their websites, others have chosen a different route. Shetland News currently has  over 600 supporters  who are all making small voluntary financial contributions. All funds go towards covering our cost and improving the service further.

Your contribution will ensure Shetland News can: -

  • Bring you the headlines as they happen;
  • Stay editorially independent;
  • Give a voice to the community;
  • Grow site traffic further;
  • Research and publish more in-depth news, including more Shetland Lives features.

If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a supporter of Shetland News by either making a single payment or monthly subscription.

Support us from as little as £3 per month – it only takes a minute to sign up. Thank you.

 

Newsletters

Subscribe to a selection of different newsletters from Shetland News, varying from breaking news delivered on the minute, to a weekly round-up of the opinion posts. All delivered straight to your inbox.

Daily Briefing Newsletter Weekly Highlights Newsletter Opinion Newsletter Life in Shetland Newsletter

JavaScript Required

We're sorry, but Shetland News isn't fully functional without JavaScript enabled.
Head over to the help page for instructions on how to enable JavaScript on your browser.

Your Privacy

We use cookies on our site to improve your experience.
By using our service, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy.

Browser is out-of-date

Shetland News isn't fully functional with this version of .
Head over to the help page for instructions on updating your browser for more security, improved speed and the best overall experience on this site.

Interested in Notifications?

Get notifications from Shetland News for important and breaking news.
You can unsubscribe at any time.

Become a supporter of Shetland News

We're committed to ensuring everyone has equitable access to impartial, open and quality local journalism that benefits all residents.

By supporting Shetland News, you play a vital role in ensuring we remain a pivotal resource in supporting the community.

Support us from as little as £3 per month – it only takes a minute to sign up. Thank you.