Scottish Vacant and Derelict Land Survey 2023

2. Introduction

The Scottish Vacant and Derelict Land Survey (SVDLS) is a data collection to establish the extent and state of vacant and derelict land in Scotland. The survey has been operating since 1988. The data are collected from local authorities and the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park Authority. From 2011 Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park took responsibility for surveying vacant and derelict land within the park boundaries. Sites within Cairngorms National Park boundaries are still surveyed by the relevant local authorities. The survey base date is 31 March 2023.

These statistics provide the evidence base for monitoring the extent and state of urban vacant and derelict land. Also for monitoring the remediation of vacant and derelict land and progress in bringing it into re-use. The statistics can be used to inform the programming of rehabilitation, planning, and reuse of urban vacant and derelict sites.

The statistics are used by the Scottish Government to help allocate and monitor the impact of the Vacant and Derelict Land Fund (VDLF). The fund aims to tackle long-term vacant and derelict land in Scotland. Its objectives are to stimulate economic growth, create jobs, promote environmental justice and improved quality of life, and to support communities to flourish and tackle inequalities. For 2024 to 2025, five local authorities received a share of £5 million reflecting the extent of vacant and derelict land in these areas and levels of deprivation.

The statistics will also be used in future years to monitor the impact of the low carbon Vacant and Derelict Land Investment Programme. This is a capital programme to help with tackling persistent vacant and derelict land, supporting place based approaches to delivering regeneration and sustainable inclusive growth, as part of a just transition to net-zero.