Introducing the new Scottish Outdoor Recreation Alliance (SORA) manifesto

SORA members work together to amplify the voice of all access users. Although the people we represent enjoy the outdoors in different ways, we all rely on our right of responsible access being understood, valued and upheld. Ahead of the 2026 Holyrood elections, we have worked together to produce a joint manifesto, urging Scotland's political parties to include the following commitment in their 2026 manifestos:  

Scotland is blessed with iconic landscapes and much-loved green spaces. We also lead the world in legal rights for people to access and enjoy those outdoor spaces. However, many of our paths to the countryside and nature need to be restored, opened up and signposted so everyone can benefit. That is why we will introduce an ambitious “Paths into Nature” programme 2026-31, backed by a £50 million Scottish Paths Fund, to improve the quality, accessibility and visibility of our paths in outdoor spaces.

The manifesto goes on to suggest five policies we think are needed to deliver this commitment:

• A single Scottish Paths Fund of £50 million to cover the period 2026-2031 
• The new Scottish Government to work with the UK Government to ensure core paths are shown on OS maps
• New guidance to access authorities on how to fulfil their legal role 
• An expanded access role for NatureScot including education and promotion and overseeing Scotland’s Great Trails 
• An Outdoor Access for All initiative to help the most disadvantaged groups enjoy the benefits and joy of outdoor recreation. 

We believe, pound for pound, there are few policy choices which could be so popular and deliver as much public benefit as our proposals. Up to 80% of people in Scotland enjoy the activities which our organisations champion. The outdoor activities our members enjoy are critical to the nation’s health, mental wellbeing, environment and a sustainable visitor economy.

Read the full manifesto here.

Who is a part of SORA?

The Scottish Outdoor Recreation Alliance (SORA) includes Ramblers Scotland, Mountaineering Scotland, Cycling UK in Scotland, Paddle Scotland, British Horse Society Scotland, ScotWays (Scottish Rights of Way and Access Society) and Scottish Sports Association.