Land use change on Scottish Highland estates
1994
MacGregor, B.D. | Stockdale, A.
The 1980s were characterized by significant changes to land use policy. This paper considers the results of a study of estates in North West Sutherland which examined land use changes during 1980-1990. Important land use changes are identified which represent a continuation and, in some cases, an acceleration of trends noted from the 1970-1980 period. Trends are, however, variable within and between estate types so that the physical capabilities of the holdings and land use policies generally are inappropriate as full explanations. More relevant is owner motivation. The dominant owner motivation, by typically elderly absentee owners, is private enjoyment. The estate contributes little to the owners overall income and wealth and any commercialized activities represent an attempt to minimise losses rather than maximise profits. Conservation policies are supported. An unwillingness to develop estates and maintain land in relatively low intensity use means that private objectives are typically consistent with public conservation objectives.
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