The Scottish Government has announced that the Bluetongue Temporary Control Zone (TCZ) in south-west Scotland will become a Restricted Zone from 10 September, covering the same area. This follows evidence that BTV-3 is now circulating within the zone.
As of 4 September, 79 animals across 20 holdings in south-west Scotland have been confirmed positive for BTV-3.
Movement rules
From 10 September, all sheep, store, fattening and non-pregnant cattle will no longer need to be tested or vaccinated to move from the Restricted Zone into the disease-free area of Scotland. Some breeding animals will continue to require vaccination and testing.
Livestock will still require a licence to move out of the Restricted Zone to the rest of Scotland.
NFU Scotland welcomes the greater flexibility for affected farmers, particularly ahead of the important autumn store and breeding sales.
Vaccination
Vaccination remains the best way to protect susceptible livestock and reduce the impact of BTV-3. We strongly encourage livestock keepers to speak to their vet and make plans to vaccinate.
NFU Scotland continues to call on the Scottish Government to order vaccines, or underwrite their cost, and work with vets to prioritise and co-ordinate supply.
What happens next
Our immediate priority is making sure farmers and crofters understand what today’s announcement means for their businesses and livestock movements.
Looking further ahead, there are important questions about how Bluetongue should be managed in Scotland in 2027. Different approaches will have different animal health, economic and practical consequences across sectors and regions.
NFU Scotland will now consult our members and relevant committees, alongside assessing the evidence from this year, before reaching an agreed position on the approach we believe the Scottish Government should take next year.
Movement requirements may change at short notice. Livestock keepers should always check the latest Scottish Government guidance before moving animals and treat this as the definitive source for current movement requirements.