Update on access

Following on from the statement from the Scottish Government before the Easter weekend that the right of access to the countryside still applies, this guidance gives more detail on the responsible behaviour that comes with the right of access, especially for this time of national emergency restrictions on movement.

Scottish Natural Heritage is also encouraging land managers to continue to respect access rights which are very important at this difficult time. Mountaineering Scotland will continue to promote access and responsible behaviour in line with the current guidance.  We will continue to work with SNH and local authority access officers to address any issues or concerns our members may have, which should be reported to access@mountaineering.scot or to the relevant local access officer.

The guidance can be found on the Scottish Outdoor Access Code website, and we recommend it to all involved in countryside activities to keep everyone safe:  whether taking exercise in a countryside setting, or managing land.

Stuart Younie, Chief Executive Officer of Mountaineering Scotland, said: “It’s extremely important that people can continue to get outside for exercise and health reasons and can access the countryside for that purpose. This additional information from SNH is welcome and we want to continue to work with farmers and landowners in accordance with this guidance to ensure the public can still continue to benefit from getting outdoors during this difficult period. Thanks to all our members who have been acting responsibly and staying local over the last few weeks.”