Survey of land owners in Cairngorms National Park

A survey of landowners in the Cairngorms National Park is published today, providing information on the current activities of estates in the National Park and their future aspirations.

The Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA) commissioned the independent study – which is now available to view online – in 2013. The aim was to gather information on the current economic, social and environmental contribution of landowners in the Park and their future aspirations, to inform delivery of the aims of the National Park and future policy development.

The survey was conducted by SRUC (Scotland’s Rural College), UHI Centre for Mountain Studies and Rural Solutions with support from Scottish Land & Estates. To avoid duplication it was conducted at the same time as a national survey being undertaken by Scottish Land & Estates.

Hamish Trench, the CNPA’s Director of Conservation & Visitor Experience explained: “The last survey of landowners in the Cairngorms National Park was carried out by the Cairngorms Partnership in 2002 so we were keen to source up-to-date information to help plan for the future.

“In addition to the general economic information being collated in a national survey commissioned by Scottish Land & Estates, we particularly wanted to collate information on community development and conservation. We also wanted to identify future opportunities for collaboration to help deliver the National Park Partnership Plan.”

Estates provide significant employment in the Cairngorms National Park – 9 per cent – and contribute significantly to the economy (about 6 per cent of GVA). Results describe the dominant land use as managed moorland, followed by rough grazing, conservation and commercial forestry. Looking to the future, most respondents said they wanted to increase activity in renewable energy production, tourism and leisure opportunities.

Duncan Bryden, Convener of the CNPA commented: “Estate management that supports wider public interests plays a key role in making the Cairngorms National Park an outstanding place for its nature and landscapes, visitor experience and dynamic rural economy. The Park Authority works with a wide range of land based businesses, to deliver for conservation, visitor experience and rural development.”

Click here to read the full report.