Freedom of Information Request - Licensing Applications Computerised Programmes
Date: 19 January 2026
Our ref: SIR182690/A5658526
Information Request – Licensing Applications Computerised Programmes
Your Request
(1) Does NatureScot use computerised programmes to assess any licensing applications?
(2) If so, please can you detail the circumstances in which such programmes are used?
(3) What is the total cost to NatureScot of using computerised programmes for considering licensing applications.
Your Clarified Request
My request was looking for any information on computerised programmes such as AI and any others that could help read applications and facilitate or assist in making judgements.
Our Response
We have discussed your clarified request with our Licensing Team, and we can confirm that NatureScot does not use decision making programmes such as AI to help read or make licensing decisions.
How We Handled Your Request
We believe you have asked for environmental information as defined in the Environmental Information (Scotland Regulations 2004 (‘the EIRs’), so we are dealing with your request under those regulations. To be able to use the EIRs, we must apply an exemption under section 39(2) of the Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2002 (‘FOISA’). The Scottish Information Commissioner’s guidance recommends that public authorities apply this exemption to environmental information and handle request under the EIRs.
If you would like to find out more about the access to information legislation, there is a guidance booklet available on the Scottish Information Commissioner’s website.
Review and Appeal
I hope this information meets your requirements, but if you are dissatisfied with how we have responded to your information request, please write to us within 40 working days explaining your concerns. You can contact us at Battleby, Redgorton, Perth, PH1 3EW or email us at [email protected]. We will carry out a review of our response and contact you with our findings within 20 working days.
If you are not satisfied following this, you can make an appeal to the Scottish Information Commissioner within 6 months. The Scottish Information Commissioner can be contacted at:
Scottish Information Commissioner
Kinburn Castle
Doubledykes Road
St Andrews
Fife
KY16 9DS
Telephone: 01334 464610
Yours sincerely
FOI Officer,
NatureScot
