They suggested either repeat fines or a system of escalating penalties, potentially using cross-compliance.iiiWritten submissions including Andy Wightman, Development Trusts Association Scotland, Cosaig Growers, Wellbeing Economy Alliance Scotland CLS set out a “staged escalation process” in their written submission:
Stage 1 escalation – a fine of “considerably more than £5000”;
Stage 2 escalation – LCC can impose a LMP Order creating an obligation to produce a LMP, with failure to act leading to a public report from the LCC and the LCC being able to initiate action to impact landowner’s entitlement to public funds;
Stage 3 escalation – continued breach reported as a criminal offence or LCC given powers to order the sale of the land.Written submission of Community Land Scotland
Cross-compliance was considered a useful tool by a number of stakeholders.iNet Zero, Energy and Transport Committee, Official Report, 18 June 2024, cols 13-14; Net Zero, Energy and Transport Committee, Official Report, 5 November 2024, cols 18, 28, 42; Net Zero, Energy and Transport Committee, Official Report, 26...