The Scottish government has launched a 12-week consultation on the long term framework for the devolved management of the Crown Estate in Scotland.

The devolution of the management and revenue of the Crown Estate in Scotland was recommended by the Smith Commission and put into law in the Scotland Act 2016. The value of Crown Estate property in Scotland was £271.8 million and gross annual revenue was £14 million in 2015/16.

Scottish Ministers are taking a phased approach to the transfer and is setting up an interim public body, Crown Estate Scotland (Interim Management), to manage the assets in Scotland from April 2017, subject to the completion of transfer of powers at Westminster. The current consultation is about the second phase of devolution. 

Cabinet secretary for environment, climate change and land reform, Roseanna Cunningham, said: “Control over the management and resources of the Crown Estate in Scotland should rest with the people of Scotland and this is a genuine opportunity to change the fabric of Scottish Society. This consultation is a once in a lifetime opportunity to help shape the future management of The Crown Estate in Scotland. Good Management of our land, marine environment and other natural resources is essential for Scotland’s future prosperity.

She added: “I would encourage all those interested to respond to the consultation and help us to assume our new powers in a way which creates solutions which meet Scotland’s needs and interests.”

Amanda Bryan, shadow chairing member of Crown Estate Scotland said: ”From the 1st of April decisions about both the day to day management and the future of the estate will be taken in Scotland which is a huge step forward. I along with the staff of the new interim management body will seek to manage the estate responsibly, delivering benefits to our partners, tenants and communities and ensuring that it remains in good order for the next phase.”

The consultation on the proposals will run until 29 March Details can be found on the Scottish Government website at: https://consult.scotland.gov.uk/crown-estate-strategy-unit/long-term-management-of-the-crown-estate