Legal Background
The publication of this Guide is timely in that new access legislation, both in Scotland and in England and Wales , will increase opportunities for people to explore and enjoy the countryside.
In Scotland , the Scottish Executive introduced the Land Reform ( Scotland ) Bill, in November 2001, Part I of which provides for a right of responsible access to land and water for recreational purposes and for crossing land. The right would apply to almost all of Scotland 's countryside, with safeguards for privacy, public safety, land management and conservation.
In England and Wales , the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 introduces a statutory right of access to open country for the purpose of open-air recreation and strengthens and improves the rights of way system.
As this legislation is implemented, those responsible for the provision of access will need to pay increasing regard to standards of access provision and to the installation of structures that accommodate the access needs of all visitors to the countryside.