A controversial new by-law has been passed, restricting the beloved Scottish tradition of 'right to roam' on the proposed site of Scotland's first Center Parcs. This decision has sparked a heated debate, pitting economic development against the preservation of public access and outdoor freedom.
The proposed holiday village near Hawick will now deny public access to over half of its designated land, a move that has alarmed opponents and raised concerns about its potential impact on other sites across Scotland.
But here's where it gets controversial: Scottish Borders Council (SBC) supported the restriction, citing the 'centrality' of a fenced area with one access point to Center Parcs' business model. The Scottish government has since approved this decision, with the by-law set to take effect in April.
The Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003 guarantees the right to responsible access, but SBC argues that this doesn't meet Center Parcs' needs, especially after they secured planning permission. Late last year, SBC agreed to pursue the by-law as the only viable option, having explored and dismissed other alternatives.
Center Parcs' plans encompass 405 hectares of land at Huntlaw and Muirfield Farm, with the main site, including accommodation and the village center, spanning 214 hectares and fully enclosed by a secure fence. The only access point will be a gated entrance for arrivals, effectively restricting public access.
Center Parcs maintains that the remainder of the site will remain accessible, but this has not quelled concerns. Ramblers Scotland and ScotWays, the Scottish Rights of Way and Access Society, have both raised objections, fearing this move could set a precedent that erodes the rights of responsible access nationally.
And this is the part most people miss: despite these concerns, a special full meeting of SBC concluded that the Center Parcs development was an 'exceptional case', and the by-law was approved, seeking and receiving Scottish government endorsement.
So, what does this mean for Scotland's right to roam? Introduced in 2005, the Land Reform Act guarantees a statutory right of responsible access to land and inland waters for various purposes, including recreation and education. The Scottish Outdoor Access Code provides guidelines for recreational users and land managers, ensuring a harmonious balance between public access and land management.
However, with the first Center Parcs in Scotland now facing restricted access, the question remains: will this set a precedent that undermines the spirit of the Land Reform Act and the Scottish Outdoor Access Code?
What are your thoughts? Do you think the economic benefits of Center Parcs outweigh the potential loss of public access? Or is this a slippery slope that could lead to further restrictions on Scotland's beloved right to roam? We'd love to hear your opinions in the comments below!
