Scotland Rural Conference 2026

Overview

The RICS Scotland Rural Conference 2026 will bring together rural surveyors, land managers, valuers and agents from across Scotland to explore the key issues shaping rural practice today. Taking place at Perth Racecourse on 6 October 2026, the conference will provide a focused day of technical insight, professional development and networking for Scotland’s rural surveying community. 

Through expert presentations, panel discussions and breakout sessions, delegates will examine developments in valuation, taxation, land reform, energy, sustainability and rural land management. The conference will explore the skills and assets within our specialist surveying community, highlighting how knowledge sharing, cross-disciplinary expertise and professional collaboration can strengthen the profession, support career progression and help develop the next generation of rural surveyors. 

Worth 5.5 hours of CPD, delegates will leave with: 

• Enhanced technical knowledge across valuation, land management, energy, taxation and legal matters.
• Practical insights to help advise clients in an increasingly complex rural landscape.
• Greater awareness of emerging skills, opportunities and career pathways.
• Valuable connections with peers, industry experts and policymakers.
• A clearer understanding of the future challenges and opportunities facing rural Scotland.
   

The conference offers a unique opportunity to learn from leading practitioners, share best practice and invest in ongoing professional development while helping shape the future of rural surveying in Scotland.

Agenda

• 08:30 - Registration and networking
• 09:30 - Welcome Remarks from the Conference Chair 
• 09:40 - Session 1: Land Reform
• 10:25 - Lightning Talk: Rural Forum & Study Group
• 10:30 - Session 2: Scottish Rural Planning Update
• 11:15 - Refreshment break & networking
• 11:30 - Session 3: Tax Update
• 12:15 - Lightning Talk: RICS Sustainability and Retrofit pathways
• 12:20 - Session 4: Land Agreements for Development Purposes Standard
• 13:05 - Lionheart Update
• 13:15 - Lunch Break
• 14:15 - Breakout 5A: Scottish Rural Connectivity
• 14:15 - Breakout 5B: Legal Update
• 15:00 - Room Change
• 15:05 - Breakout 6A: Scottish Forestry Market Update
• 15:05 - Breakout 6B: Panel: Securing the future of rural surveyors
• 15:50 - Refreshment break
• 16:10 - Session 7: Panel: Repowering and Energy in rural areas
• 16:55 - Closing Remarks from the Conference Chair
• 17:00 - Conference close