This session offers a unique opportunity to gain insights into the operations of Crown Estate Scotland, a self-funded purpose-led public body which invests in property and natural resources to deliver lasting value for Scotland. 

Crown Estate Scotland manages the Scottish Crown Estate – seabed, coastline, rural estates, commercial property and more – on behalf of Scottish Ministers. Their pivotal role ensures that families, businesses, and communities can prosper and thrive through sustainable use of the Estate. 

The event will be chaired by EDAS Board member, David McIntosh, an expert in Net Zero & Climate Change and Economic Development, currently seconded to Scottish Government from the Scottish Futures Trust.  

Ronan O’Hara, the Chief Executive of Crown Estate Scotland, will provide an insightful update on the organisation’s ongoing work, illustrated by case studies from Crown Estate Scotland colleagues, and introduce emerging priorities for 2025-30. Following this, the floor will be opened to the audience for their engagement and feedback. 

This interactive session is designed to encourage audience contributions on their valuable perspectives on the strategic direction of Crown Estate Scotland. It encourages vibrant discussions on forthcoming policy considerations, especially in light of financial constraints, and fosters creative exploration of potential actions that Crown Estate Scotland can undertake to address and bridge any existing gaps. This collaborative exchange will play a pivotal role in shaping the organisation’s trajectory for the period spanning 2025 to 2030. 

Agenda  

14:00 – 14:10 Welcome and Context  

David McIntosh, Net Zero & Climate Change and Economic Development (Funding Programmes Adviser), Scottish Government (on secondment from Scottish Futures Trust) and EDAS Board Member.  

14:10 – 14:25 Crown Estate Scotland: Role, Remit, and Priorities for 2025-2030  

Ronan O’Hara, Chief Executive, Crown Estate Scotland 

14:25 – 14:35 Q & A led by David McIntosh 

14:35 – 14:45  Case Study: Offshore Wind Supply Chain  

Gillian Morrison, Development Manager (Supply Chain), 

Crown Estate Scotland 

14:45 – 14:55 Case Study: Built Environment and Working with Communities 

Triona Tiernan, Head of Built Development, Crown Estate Scotland  

14:55 – 15:05  Q & A led by David McIntosh  

15:05 – 15:25  Crown Estate Scotland Strategy 2025 – 2030: Feedback and Futures Thinking 

This session offers the audience a chance to share their perspectives on emerging priorities, as well as engage in discussions regarding forthcoming policy matters, especially in the face of financial constraints. Furthermore, it provides a platform to explore potential actions that Crown Estate Scotland can take to address and bridge any gaps. 

15:25 – 15:30 Closing Remarks – David McIntosh