Environmental Information

Environmental Information

The Environmental Information (Scotland) Regulations 2004 (EIR) give you the right to request and access environmental information from the Crofting Commission. You do not have to explain why you want the information, but doing so may help us to answer your request more effectively.

Before Making a Request for Information

Before making a formal request, please explore the large amount of information already available on our website, including our Publication Scheme, Annual Reports, Publications, and Board Papers. If you are specifically looking for details regarding individual crofts, croft lists or associated individuals, you can find this via our Open Data and our Register of Crofts. We are committed to transparency and providing information whenever possible, please also keep in mind our Charging Policy.

How to Request Information

You can make a request either in writing or by speaking to a member of staff. You can phone us on 01463 663439 or write to us with “EIR” or “Environmental Information” in the subject line or body of the request.

When requesting information you must provide:

  • Your full name
  • A contact address – this can be a postal or email address
  • A description of the information you want

Providing a daytime telephone number would also be helpful should we need to contact you about your request.

You can find more information on your rights at the Scottish Information Commissioner’s website.

Fees and Timescales

Will there be a fee?  We do not usually charge for requests. However, we may charge a fee if your request places a significant demand on our staff or finances. Any fees will be communicated to you in advance. You can read our Charging Policy for full details.

Timescale: We will respond to your request within 20 working days. If your request is particularly complex or involves a lot of information, we may extend this period to 40 working days, in which case we will notify you as soon as possible.

Review and Appeal – what to do if you’re unhappy with our response

If you are unhappy with our response, you have the right to challenge the decision.

Request a review: If you are not happy with our response, you can ask for a review within 40 working days. We will look at your request again and aim to provide a response within 20 working days.

Appeal to the Scottish Information Commissioner: If you are still not satisfied, you have the right to appeal to the Scottish Information Commissioner. You should keep all your correspondence with us, as you will need to provide copies to the Commissioner.

EIR Requests

We keep a public record of all environmental information requests we receive. If you want a full copy of a response, email us at compliancehub@crofting.gov.scot and include the case number.

We are strongly committed to complying with legislation that gives you the right to request information and for that information to be provided to you unless there are good reasons not to do so.