Aberdeenshire Local Outdoor Access Forum

Aberdeenshire Local Outdoor Access Forum (ALOAF) plays a key role in promoting responsible outdoor access and making sure Scotland’s land access legislation is implemented. Local access forums were established across Scotland by the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003 (the Act) to provide guidance to local authorities on implementing access rights.

ALOAF specifically serves Aberdeenshire, excluding the Cairngorms National Park. Their primary function is to advise us on matters about outdoor access, including the exercise of access rights, designation of rights of way, and development of core path networks. They also provide mediation and support in resolving disputes about access rights, making sure the solutions are fair and balanced for everyone involved.

Role and responsibilities

ALOAF is an independent advisory group composed of individuals with extensive knowledge and experience in outdoor access. Members represent four key interest groups:

• Recreational users – walkers, cyclists, horse riders, canoeists, and others who access the countryside for leisure
• Land managers – farmers, landowners, and estate managers responsible for the stewardship of rural lands
• Community representatives – individuals advocating for local interests and community engagement in outdoor access
• Agencies and organisations – experts from public bodies and non-governmental organisations involved in land access, environmental conservation, and rural development

Objectives

ALOAF aims to:

• Provide strategic guidance on outdoor access issues
• Encourage responsible land and access management
• Strengthen relationships between public agencies, land managers, community groups, and access users
• Advocate for inclusive access that meets the needs of diverse communities

What ALOAF does

ALOAF meets regularly to discuss, review, and provide guidance on a wide range of topics, including:

• Enhancing countryside access - making the outdoors more accessible and enjoyable for non-motorised users, including walkers, cyclists, horse riders and canoeists (on inland water, which is covered by the Act)
• Core Paths Plan development - advising us on the planning and maintenance of essential walking, cycling and riding routes
• Mediating access disputes - offering impartial help to resolve conflicts about access rights in their jurisdiction
• Developing recreation and access strategies - making sure outdoor access initiatives meet a wide range of needs and interests
• Improving the rights of way network - working to preserve and enhance established rights of way

All formal ALOAF meetings are open to the public, so community members can take part, share their views, and stay informed about access related developments in Aberdeenshire.

Get involved

ALOAF encourages public participation and welcomes input from individuals and groups interested in outdoor access.

Contact ALOAF if you have any questions, need mediation support, or want to go to a meeting: aloaf@aberdeenshire.gov.uk